How to Write an Effective and Professional Query Letter

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By Delaplane
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Write an Effective and Professional Query Letter

Sending out query letters is an important part of the publishing process. Let’s face it, a novel can’t sell itself. Crafting and submitting polished queries to publishers is the way you get noticed (well, in addition to writing a good book). That said, keeping the following advice in mind will help you write professional query letters that will get read. [Sample paragraphs are from the query that helped get my novel sold]

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Patience
Determination

Step 1

Complete and Polish Your Work

First things first, complete your novel. Then, as you seek out a publisher, continue to read over your novel in search of typos, plot inconsistencies or other blemishes. Ask friends to read it over as well. Polishing the story is never complete until the work is published.
Step 2

Introduction Paragraph

Intro paragraphs need to be concise, professional, and grab a publisher’s attention. Specific information to include is the length and type of manuscript (genre). Also, avoid gimmicks. Telling a publisher that your manuscript is the best novel she/he will ever read will land your novel in the trash (although I’m sure the publisher and company staff will enjoy reminiscing about your arrogance at the next New Year’s party).

Ex:
My anthropological research, along with my love of fantasy novels and Celtic history, provided the inspiration and direction for writing PEOPLE OF THE SWORD, a fantasy manuscript complete at 81,000 words. I would be grateful if you would consider publishing my work.
Step 3

Synopsis

I always use the second paragraph to provide a synopsis of my novel, a synopsis which includes a glimpse at the major characters and the ending fully explained.
Step 4

Biography

Use your 3rd paragraph to provide a short summary of your writing experience. Include info regarding relevant publications to show expertise within the genre.

EX:

My writing background includes non-fiction and fiction publications. As for my anthropological research, which focuses on the outcomes of contact between technologically and theologically different societies, I have published my results in peer-reviewed publications. My fiction publications, on the other hand, include a play, which was performed at Canisius College (Titled: America’s Idol: An Absurd Parody of Ionesco’s “The Leader”), and a short story published in Beyond Centauri (Titled: Master’s Calling).
Step 5

End Thoughts

Remain professional. End the letter by thanking the publisher for their time and ask him/her to contact you if you need anything else. Also, Don’t hound publishers to see if they received your query. Decisions could take months. Be patient.