Writing effective queries is a critical skill that all writers should develop. A query is a short letter, usually 250-350 words, that pitches your book idea or article to an agent, editor, or publications and tries to get them interested in reading your full work. A good query convinces the recipient that your work is compelling, commercially viable, and right for their needs. Here are some tips for writing winning queries that get requested materials read:
Introduce Yourself Professionally – Start with a brief introduction that includes your author credentials, any relevant work experience or publishing credits. Your goal is establish credibility that you can successfully complete the project. Limit biographical information to only what is most relevant as too much makes the focus about you not the work.
Clearly State The Project – In the first paragraph summarize exactly what your project is – the title of the book or article, word count or page count, and intended audience/market. Give them a clear sense up front about the type and scope of work you are pitching. Using the exact title helps them identify and remember your project later.
Describe The Central Theme or Plot – Devote the bulk of your query to clearly outlining the central theme, plot or thesis of your work in an engaging way. Give them a strong sense of what it is about and why readers would find it appealing and want to engage with it. Use specific examples and details to bring it to life without giving away the entire story or argument. Focus on painting a compelling picture to grab their interest.
Highlight Commerical Potential – Agents and publications want to know there is an audience and market for the idea. Discuss who the target readers are and why those readers would be interested. Cite comparable books or coverage of similar topics that were successful if relevant. You can also mention anticipated marketing opportunities or platforms through which you can promote if selected to expand the work’s reach and sales potential.
Establish Your Credentials – Briefly touch upon any life experiences, education, research or prior publications that qualify you to complete this particular project successfully. Explain how your background positions you as the right author for this topic or story. Keep biographical information concise so the focus remains on selling the merits of the work itself.
Request Specific Next Steps – In the closing paragraph politely request to send a full proposal, partial manuscript or completed work for consideration. State that you will follow up with a phone call within a specified time period if you have not heard back. Thank them in advance for their time and consideration.
Polish Your Writing Skills – Queries are a writing sample, so your writing style should be clear, concise and captivating from the first sentence. Use action verbs, showcase your voice, and craft compelling sentences that make them want to keep reading. Have others review your work for clarity, flow and ability to convey the concept succinctly. Revise and refine based on feedback.
Customize For Each Recipient – Research the specific needs and interests of each agent, publisher or publication you target. Address them by name if possible and personalize the query by emphasizing how your work aligns with the type of material they represent or cover. Avoid generic mass queries that lack consideration for individual tastes and priorities.
Proofread Thoroughly – Nothing undermines credibility like silly typos or factual errors. Carefully proofread for spelling, grammar, consistency and accuracy. Ask others to be another set of eyes as you may overlook small details after multiple revisions. Only submit polished, impeccable queries devoid of any careless mistakes.
Follow Up Professionally – If you do not hear back within the timeline stated, follow through on your promise to call. Leave a brief, polite voicemail reiterating your interest in discussing the proposal if they cannot take your call. Thank them again for their time and consideration. Do not become a pest; two follow up attempts should suffice before accepting the answer is no and moving on to another potential fit.
Track Responses Methodically – Maintain thorough records of all queries submitted with notes on the date, person contacted and any response or next steps outlined if interested. This allows you to follow up appropriately without annoying repeat contacts. It also enables you to spot patterns in terms of types of projects or presenting aspects that were most successful so you can emphasize those qualities in future pitches.
Prepare For Rejection Graciously – The reality is most queries do not result in an immediate “yes.” Learn to professionally accept “no” responses and requests for revisions with appreciation for honest feedback. Rejection is part of the business; do not become disheartened. View it as an opportunity to strengthen future queries rather than a reflection of your worth. With time and practice of incorporating lessons learned, your success rate will improve.
Writing queries is both an art and a science requiring patience and persistence. Following proven techniques helps improve your chances of landing requested materials in the hands of the right decision makers. With refinement, even initially unsuccessful pitches can evolve into opportunities. Effective queries get your foot in the door – it is then up to the inherent merits of your completed work to seal the deal. Approach querying as a craft to develop through trial and error. With dedication you are sure to start getting more “yeses.”
Andrew Stroud