Learning how to write a superb query letter is almost as important as writing a great manuscript. An enticing letter will grab the agent or publisher’s attention and say, “I am worth your investment!”
Query letters differ a little depending on who the agent is, what their guidelines are and what type of book you’re writing whether that be a novel, nonfiction, poetry, or whatever. There are, however, many elements that remain the same.
This list of do’s and don’ts will help you navigate what’s important to include in your pitch and what you should avoid. By sticking to these 10 do’s and don’ts of writing a query letter, you’ll create the best opportunity for yourself to find success and land an agent or publisher.
5 Things to Do …
Address the agent by name.
When sending query letters to an agent, you always want to use their name. Generic letters addressed to “To Whom it May Concern” or “Dear Literary Agent” are less likely to connect you with someone at an agency. Usually, these letters are simply discarded. By using an agent’s name, you personalize your message and show that you’ve done your research. It’s just like sending in your resume for a new job opportunity. Make sure everything is as perfect as it can be and always make sure you spell the agent’s name correctly.
Get right to the point.
Much like a book, you want to hook that agent with your first sentence. The best way to do that is to introduce the hook of your manuscript right away. Don’t waste the opening paragraph of your query letter introducing yourself.
Convince them.
The summary of your book will either secure or doom your chances of attracting an agent. Write this section the same way you would write the copy that would appear on the back of the book jacket. It needs to sell your book to the reader. This is the most important part of your query letter and you should spend the most time on it. If you need help, there are several great author groups on social media that willingly give advice. On Facebook, try Authors Helping Authors Reviews.
Tell the agent why you chose them.
Just like how salespeople learn their target markets before selling products to it, so too should you learn about your agent prior to pitching them your manuscript. The more you know, the more likely you are to target the right person and find success. The most important thing to know about your agent is what books and genres they represent. In your query, be sure to mention one or two of these books and briefly explain why you think your book is a good fit in that group. Agents want to sell books that will earn them a good commission.
Mention your social media platforms.
Do you have a website blog that gets thousands of page views a month? Maybe you get invited to speaking engagements at writing conferences? Or are you regularly invited to be featured at author events at Barnes & Nobles and other book venues? Do you have a Facebook page that gets a lot of followers each month? Mention these! Having a platform enhances your opportunity to reach an audience of readers. If an agent knows you have the resources to reach an audience on your own, it makes you a more attractive client. Everything that helps you sell more copies of your books is important!
5 Things Not to Do …
Show arrogance.
Never say anything in your query that is false. You may think your manuscript is the greatest book ever written, but don’t say it. Focus instead on sharing any writing credits and positive reviews you may have received on Goodreads or Amazon.
Give your age.
There is no point in doing this. It doesn’t benefit you in any way, so just don’t!
Tell agents that you value their time.
Many writers waste a sentence or two in their query stating how they know the agent is busy or that their time is valuable. There’s no need for this. Agents are quite aware of how busy they are. Instead, focus your energy on writing a letter that will sell your book!
Include writing credits that don’t matter.
Unless you’ve had books reviewed by a major publication like the New York Times or a famous celebrity like Oprah, don’t bother mentioning them. Stick to selling your manuscript. However, if you have other non-writing credentials that are valuable, such as if you are a CPA with 10 years of experience and you are writing a book on tax strategies for Middle Class families, that is worth mentioning. Anything that makes you an authority on your topic is something you should share.
Do you have any other do’s and don’ts you would like to share with us? Let us know by commenting below!
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