8 Steps to Query Letter Success

You've got a great idea and a little research to back it up, so where do you go from here? You may be tempted to grab the pen and paper, but before you invest valuable time and energy into producing a top quality article, test your idea's viability with a query letter. Follow these 8 simple steps, and you'll be writing outstanding query letters in no time.

1. Read the Writer's Guidelines

Publishers produce writer's guidelines to make life easier for all of us. Perusing the guidelines will give you a quick idea of whether your article and writing style will fit within their publication. This is also where you will find specific details about how to query, submit manuscripts, and what to expect in terms of payment. Writer's guidelines are often found on their websites, or you can send a request to the publisher, just be sure to include a self-addressed-stamped envelope. The markets section of this site contains links to various Christian publications' writer's guidelines.

2. Read the Publication

Once you've decided on a publisher, read several back issues. Check your local library, and scour the internet for sample articles. The writer's guidelines will often include instructions for ordering a back issue at little or no cost. While you are reading, note the section of the magazine that you feel will be the best fit for your story. Be sure to check out the Letter from the Editor, as this will give you a good feel for the tone of the magazine.

3. Address the Letter to the Proper Editor

Query letters should follow the standard business letter format. This is where your research begins to shine through. Address your letter to the editor that oversees the department where you envision your article in print. You can find this information in the masthead in the front of the magazine. If you are not sure what section your article fits into, send it to an associate editor. Avoid sending your query letter to the editor-in-chief, as they are very busy and may be less likely to read your proposal.

4. Hook Them with 3 C's.

When planning your first paragraph, think compelling, concise, and clear. Make every word count. Editors are busy people, if they are not interested in the first few lines, chances are slim that they will make it to the end of your letter. This is the time to let your writing skills shine. Write in a tone similar to that used in the articles you researched, and in the same voice that you plan to use in your article. Work and rework your first paragraph until you are sure that it will leave the editor wanting more.

5. It's All About You (the Publisher)

Tell them what this article will do for their publication and their readers. Emphasize why they need this article, and how they will benefit from publishing it. Since you have read the magazine you know what their readers like, so tell them why this article fits the bill.

6. Specific Details

Layout a few bullet points that provide specific details on how you plan to write the article, such as quotes from an expert, or recent statistics that support your story. Show the editor that you are capable of conducting the research required to complete the project, and always make sure your facts are correct.

7. Sell Yourself

You've pitched your idea and the editor loves it, so now is the time to prove that you are the one to complete the task. Highlight any magazines that have featured your work, especially those that reach a similar reader base, include any professional writers' organizations that you belong to, as well as any relevant expertise you have on the topic. Give yourself credit where credit is do, we have all gained expertise through the experiences we've had in life. Use your God-given gift for words to accentuate those experiences.

8. Pray

I always pray before I send out a query or manuscript. I don't beg God to give me the assignment, I pray that my work will bring a fruitful return for His kingdom, and that He would open right doors for me, and close wrong ones. Let God be the reason for your writing, and you are sure to be successful every time.

Check out the Query Letter Checklist before you send out your query letter.