Before you can write an excellent query letter, you must first do the legwork to research the small publishers or agencies to which you plan to submit. Performing such research ensures your submission appears informed and thoughtful, which helps your pitch resonate with each individual.
1. Determine if you want to submit your proposal to a literary agent, a small publisher, or both!
Literary agents represent you in a major book deal with a traditional publisher. Small publishers usually focus on niche books for more narrow audiences and don’t have the same distribution reach as traditional publishers. Learn more about the pros and cons of choosing a small press.
2. Make a list of what you want in a small press or agent.
Don’t know what you want? Here’s a list of 10 things to look for in a quality literary agent or small press.
3. Make time for a necessary discovery phase.
Start a deep dive search via websites, social media, books, and in-person/virtual events to find agents or small publishers that fit what you’re looking for and are looking to represent books like yours.
4. Organize a list of your preferred small publishers and agents according to your list of wants.
Use a submission tracker to help you keep track of your submissions and responses. Keep track of when you submitted, any follow-ups, and responses. This will help you manage rejections, interest, and potential offers strategically.
5. When you’re focusing on publishers, ensure they:
a. Are a good fit for your book
b. Have a gap that your work could fill
6. When you’re focusing on agents, ensure they:
a. Represent your genre
b. Are currently accepting new authors
7. Visit each of the agents or small publisher’s websites and follow their submission guidelines exactly.
Take notes, reread them ten times–do whatever is necessary to follow guidelines as closely as possible.
8. Determine the differences of each agent and/or small press, make notes next to their names on your list, and prepare to tailor and personalize each letter you send.
Agents appreciate when authors show they’ve done their research. Mentioning a podcast, interview, or specific book they’ve worked on signals genuine interest and effort. For instance, if you listened to a podcast they’re featured on, when you write your letter, you’ll want to immediately mention that you heard them speak and what you liked about their interview.
9. Find a fitting pair of second eyes for your letter.
Perform a comprehensive editing stage before any other professional reads your work. Who to ask? A critique partner or beta reader, a writing group, or a professional editor (especially for higher-stakes submissions) can help!
To learn more about query letters, check out:
