Writing a query letter may seem simple, but the true challenges of this endeavor can only be understood by someone staring at a blank page not knowing where to begin. Many people will share tips with you to keep in mind while writing query letters but may forget to point out any mistakes to avoid.
Here are all the common mistakes you must avoid in a query letter.
Keep it Short
Crafting a query letter can be difficult, not because of the quantity or quality of content, but because it needs to be concise. Literary agents receive numerous query letters daily and do not have time to read lengthy documents at all.
If your query letter is longer than one page, it has a higher chance of being left unread. That is why it is recommended that the authors keep it short. You do not write a 10-page long letter to tell the agent who you are and what your work is about.
Every word you use is a tool to win over the hearts of the recipient. As an author, you understand the power of words and how to use them to your benefit. Keeping your eye on important aspects such as the book hook, pitch, synopsis, and more can help you stay on track.
Try to Be Straightforward
Now that you understand the importance of keeping your query letter short, you will also understand the importance of being direct. Since a query letter is not supposed to be longer than a page, you can agree that there is no room for a roundabout approach. You must remain straightforward.
As mentioned earlier, literary agents do not have time to go through any additional information. Your query letter has a better chance of being read and responded to when it’s straightforward. Hence, it is best to aim for preciseness.
1. Write Short Paragraphs
If you are thinking about making an impact on your literary agent by writing long paragraphs filled with verbose, you must reconsider this idea. Long paragraphs can overwhelm even the most avid readers. Even if they read through long paragraphs, the content’s main message may be lost in the way.
Ideally, it is always recommended to keep every paragraph limited to 2-3 sentences. You may feel unable to express yourself fully while being limited. Writing a few drafts will help you refine your message further.
If you are struggling to express your idea with limited space and time, you can always seek the best query letter editing services for guidance. These experts can help you make a brilliant first impression on your agent.
2. Strengthen Your Opening
In your query letter, the first paragraph holds great importance. It is the first thing that your agent will read. Hence, it should make an ever-lasting impact on them.
Many aspiring authors make the mistake of dedicating the first paragraph to introducing themselves. While it is important for your agents to know who you are, it is not as important as what you have to offer them. At this point, you must focus on getting your reader hooked.
The starting paragraph should include personalization and an overview of your book. This helps the agent understand why you are reaching out and provides important details about your manuscript.
While query letters are required to be formal and straightforward, remember not to make them boring. You must create a dynamic start to grab the attention of your audience.
3. Ask Questions Tactfully
Every detail you mention in your query letter can feel like walking on a landmine. You must take every step carefully to not offend or displease the literary agent. This also means posing every question very tactfully without being too blunt.
Do not directly ask your literary agent if they will be interested in working with you or if they will consider hiring you on their team. Instead of being blunt, let the literary agent decide whether your work is the right match for them and when they should get back to you.
You can increase your chances of hearing back from your editor if you creatively reel them in. You can respectfully ask them about possibilities and future prospects.
4. Mention the Right Name
Are you unsure about the spellings of your agent’s name or do not know their proper titles? Do not think of them as negligible details. Making any assumptions can save you time if you are right. However, you may be one mistake away from offending your literary agent.
Instead of writing wrong titles or assuming their gender, spend some time on research. Using your agent’s right name and gender is not all about flattery or satisfying their ego. It is actually a great way for you to tell them that you understand the importance of research.
5. Keep Research Guidelines in Mind
Following a literary agent’s submission guidelines is another way for you to tell them that you have researched well. Every literary agent has submission guidelines on their website. You must find, read, and adhere to these guidelines. Otherwise, you may risk your manuscript getting rejected straight away.
Authors who disregard the submission guidelines may not receive a response from literary agents. Each agent has invested time and effort in creating these guidelines, so ignoring them is disrespectful.
After reviewing the guidelines, ensure that you submit exactly what they request. Adding extra details won’t work in your favor and may result in instant rejection.
6. Avoid Writing a Summary
One of the most common mistakes authors make while querying is forgetting the difference between a summary and a query letter. A query letter is not a document used to share the summary of your book with your agent. You must not confuse both at any cost.
A query should be concise and focused on the main elements of your story. Agents will be able to grasp your theme from your plot and character description. You do not have to entice the agent to read your book. Agents do not have time to read through lengthy letters, but they should be able to understand your story.