How to Write Email Query Letters
By Sherril Steele-Carlin
Ah, the magic of email. You can run a business, and you don't have to do your hair, your nails, or even change out of your pajamas. Just one click of the "send" button, and you can reach editors all over the world.
Does it Work?
Does querying in cyberspace really work? In my experience, yes. Emailing is an awesome way to meet and work with editors. But wait! Before you confidently hit that "send" button, you should know some things about the wonderful world of email.
Just because querying by email is quick and painless, doesn't mean you get to skip your homework. Most magazines who accept email queries have websites. Go there. Study that magazine's site just as thoroughly as you would study their sample issues. Often they offer back issues or archived articles online. Read them! The best way to sell to a market it to know that market.
When you email an editor requesting guidelines when they're available online, she can tell immediately you haven't taken the time to research her publication. It wastes her time, and makes a bad impression. Aren't you glad you did your homework?
Double Check
Wait, there's more! Make sure the editor accepts email queries. Don't take it for granted that because an editor has email, he'll take your query online. Writers guidelines are usually very specific about whether or not you should send email communication to the editors. If you're not sure, call the magazine, otherwise your first contact with that editor may be your last.
Look Professional
I query most of my editors with ideas via email, and submit most of my articles via cyberspace. I also get a lot of email! If you want to look professional, make sure your emails give that impression. This is not the time for those cute little smiley faces and greetings of "Hey Sally, you lookin' for any articles?" I attach a signature file to the bottom of every email I send, with my name, mailing address, email address, website address, etc., just like the information a letterhead would give. The editor is probably going to print out your idea, go over it, and get back to you. He needs your email address too, just in case he deletes your original message.
Check your spelling and grammar! If you're not sure about something, check for grammar tips and checkers online. Or, ask someone to read over your letter before you send it. Make that one of your ten writing commandments. Have you ever noticed how email is usually littered with poor punctuation, bad spelling, and horrible grammar? This is your first contact with someone who may become a long-term working partner in your career. If you want to impress them, make sure your letter is perfect. They'll know right away you take the time to make things right. I usually write query letters in my word processor, then cut and paste them into the email message. That way, I can spell and grammar check before I send them off.
Short but Sweet
Because large amounts of online text are hard to read, I think an email query should be shorter than a print version. To hold the editor's attention, grab them with a good hook, tell them why you're the perfect one to write the article, and give them some examples of your work. You can even point them toward articles online, if you have any.
Email can be a writer's best friend. It's a wonderful way to contact new editors quickly, and meet deadlines painlessly. Just remember; email can be your worst enemy, too. You're a professional writer, aren't you? Then let it show in your emails and reap the rewards.
