E-quiries: Increasing Publishing Opportunities

Writing effective query letters is an essential skill for any writer seeking publication. In the age of electronic communication, the process of querying magazines and literary journals is faster and easier than ever. For writers, the e-query can be a powerful tool when used correctly.

Who should I e-query?

Before sending out those e-queries, do your research. Not all publications accept queries via email. Check with the Writer’s Market or the writer’s guidelines located on their website. Some publications will direct writers to a specific email address for e-queries. Address your query to a specific editor if that information is available (keep your tone formal).

Just because it’s easy to send emails to multiple addresses doesn’t mean you should. Because of the rapid turnaround time of e-queries, there’s no need for simultaneous submissions. Emailing each publication individually is not only a professional courtesy; it will keep your queries from sounding to generic. Your queries, whether hard copy or electronic, should be specifically tailored for each publication.

How should I e-query?

Make sure you follow the standard format for traditional query letters. No more than one page with 11 or 12 point font, single-spaced, and block format (double spaced between paragraphs with no indentation). Your query should be clear and concise, illustrating the strength of your writing.

Busy editors often scan through query letters, so if you want to get their attention, make the first line count. Make a connection and mention any referral contact. In fact, your first impression starts with the subject line of your email, so make sure to use the word “query” in the title.

Query letters generally consist of three parts. Lead the query with your idea, and why it is right for their publication. Next, give your credentials: awards, honors, publishing credits (boldface or italicize the names of magazines and journals), and personal experience with the subject matter. Finally, let the editor know when you will be following up on your query. Make sure you give the editor time to consider your idea. Although your e-query will arrive in the editor’s mailbox almost instantaneously, they may not have the luxury of responding right away.

Do not send attachments with your query. They clog your editor’s mailbox and most go unopened anyways. Let the editor know you will gladly submit clippings upon request. You can also link to any publishing credits online.

Make sure to enclose your complete contact information (address, phone, fax) just as you would with a traditional query letter. You want to make the editor’s job as easy as possible.

How should I manage my e-queries?

Because sending out e-queries is so easy, it’s also easy to lose track of them. Make sure you use a spread sheet program to track which query you’ve sent to whom and when. Also, note when you are due to follow up with that query, and whether it was accepted or denied. Just because it was not accepted does not mean it is not a good idea, it may just mean it is not a good idea for that publication at the time. For, that reason you should keep a copy of all of your queries. With a little revision they can be sent out to another publisher.

With sharp query letters and diligent management e-queries can cut down on leg work and increase your publishing opportunities.