Don't make fatal errors that will cause your query letter to end up in the garbage. Pay attention to these recommended DON'TS for query letters.
The list of query letter mistakes is long. Beginning writers often get the wrong idea when writing query letters and attempt to create a relationship with the reader. Your true goal should be to appeal to their business sense and make your story or article seem like exactly what they are looking for.
Here are some common “don’ts” for query letters:
1. Don’t start your letter too casually.
“Hi, I’m Kimberly and I’d like to send you my story about...” For more information on writing a concise query letter, see the other articles in this series.
2. Don’t tell them you’ve never been published.
If you don’t have anything to brag about, keep your mouth shut. If you don’t mention it, they probably won’t give it a second thought, but as soon as you bring it up you set the stage for doubt.
3. Don’t be egotistical.
Yes, your article very well may be perfect for the magazine you’re pitching it to, but it isn’t your job to determine that. Promote the article, not yourself, the way the editor wants to see it. Let them think that buying it was their idea.
4. Don’t suck up.
Editors love to know how much readers enjoy their magazines, but query letters aren’t the place to show this.
5. Don’t give them a sob story.
If your novel isn’t what they are looking for, hearing about your sick kids and financial troubles won’t tip the scales in your favor. Additionally, agents or editors might be turned off at the thought of guiding you through personal problems.
Remember that editors and agents are business people. They are taking a chance on you that translates into a financial loss or gain. Appealing to their emotions won’t sway them into spending time on your book or article if they don’t think it will be profitable for them and their company.
Recycling is good for the environment, but bad for your query letter. Avoid these mishaps to increase your chances of a successful query.
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Need more help with query letters?
- Addressing Your Query Letter
