Some writers swear that this tactic has landed them assignments. I haven’t tried it yet (it’s on my list of things-to-do), but it seems like good advice that’s worth sharing.
Letter’s of introduction work when you don’t want to bombard an editor with queries, but still want to get your name known to the magazine. If an editor reads your letter, it serves as an introduction to you, your work and any possible ideas you may have for the publication.
Consider writing to editors of newly launched publications or publications with new editors. Both will be on the look out for writers to add to their list.
Magazines with editorial calendars are another possible outlet. You could outline a couple of ideas in your introductory letter, but don’t go overboard. Offer,instead, to send a detailed query for each idea.
In your letter, mention your writing background and credits. Spell check and keep your tone friendly but professional. Give a link to your website or blog to help the editor (if she’s so inclined) to review your writing skills.
Follow up a LOI (whether you’ve had a response or not), with an appropriate query.
For more reading:
- Letters of Introduction - A Profitable Alternatives to Queries By John K. Borchardt
- The Letter of Introduction: An Alternative to the Query
- Work Smart: Letter of Introduction
Submit to Social Networks (digg, stumble upon, del.icio.us, ...)
Related on this blog:
Found it interesting? Don't forget to bookmark the feed from the site.
0 responses so far ↓
There are no comments yet...Kick things off by filling out the form below.
Leave a Comment