Create a professional query letter by including relevant information, ways in which you can be contacted, and keeping it less than one page in length. Use the following or a similar outline.
Use the Appropriate Salutation
Locate the editor’s name and always address your letter to the editor. There may be different editors for different topics, so be sure you’re writing to the appropriate one.
Example: Dear Ms. Smith,
If you cannot ascertain the person’s gender by the name alone, look for clues in the guidelines. If the editor’s name is Pat Smith, and there is no indication if Pat is a man or a woman, use his or her first initial.
Example: Dear P. Smith,
Paragraph One
State your name and the working title of your article. Include the word count, as well as the reason you feel it will be beneficial to readers. Keep it short.
Example: My name is Sue Jones. My 500 word article, “The Joys and Challenges of Parenting Multiples,” is filled with information that is valuable to your largest demographic, mothers of twins and triplets.
Paragraph Two
This paragraph is a synopsis of your article. Hit the key points, but don’t overdo it.
Example: The Joys and Challenges of Parenting Multiples is an in depth guide based on research and firsthand experience that offers tips for becoming more organized, setting aside one-on-one time for each child, making time for your marriage, and squeezing in some time for Mom to take care of herself. It is written in a friendly, conversational tone to engage readers. This article also contains related humorous anecdotes.
Note: If many points are covered, you may want to include a numbered list of key elements.
Paragraph Three
Use this paragraph to describe your knowledge, experience, and/or expertise. Also, be sure to note if clips or links to published works are included. List your education, professional or personal experience, previously published titles, relevant memberships, and anything else that you feel is pertinent.
Example: I have been writing a personal blog for the last six months on the subject of multiples and I am including links to two of my favorite articles. These pieces are a combination of research, networking with other parents of multiples, and my own personal experience as the mother of triplets. I am a member of the Association for Parents of Multiples, for which I have written an informational article, entitled “Bringing Home Triplets.” I have included the link and the first paragraph of this article for your review.
Closing
Write an appropriate, friendly closing along with your name (or signature), and your contact information.
Example:
Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you at your convenience.
Sincerely,
Sue Jones
Email:
Phone:
Address:
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