how to query a novel.

Notice the title of this is not how to write a query letter. There are already so many helpful resources out there, which I’ve outlined in a different post. Once you’ve got your letter dialed and your list of agents ready, it’s time for the second hardest part of querying: doing the thing.

I have three major tips based on my experience. I hope they help you in your journey.

Tip #1: GET ORGANIZED

Think of this part like a job interview. You want to have your outfit, list of questions, and list of answers to possible interviewer’s questions ready before showing up. The same goes for querying.

Before you start, make yourself a master pitch document. This doc should include

1)       query letter with bio

2)       synopsis (< 1,000 words)

3)       list of comparative titles

4)       answers to QueryTracker questions

If you’re wondering what QueryTracker questions are, QueryTracker is the tracking database some agents use for query intakes. When an agent directs you to QueryTracker, you’ll see their page with fillable form fields. All the forms have fields for basic information such as name, social media handles, email, book title, word count, and genre. All forms will ask for the query letter, many will ask for the synopsis, and some will ask for sample pages, either pasted into the form or uploaded as a file. In addition, some agents will ask for a one sentence pitch/logline, one paragraph pitch, target audience (<500 words), and sometimes questions like, what was your inspiration to write this story? if this book had a playlist, what would it be? do you have a mood board? 

Spend time perfecting your master pitch document and create thoughtful answers to all these questions. That way, when you come across these questions in QueryTracker, you can just copy and paste.

Set up a spreadsheet to keep track of agents you’ve queried and plan to query. QueryTracker also can keep track for you, but I like to track on my own because not all agents use QueryTracker and I like to have everything in one place. Do what works for you.

Querying is mentally exhausting. Being prepared will help maintain your energy levels and keep you sane.

Tip #2: CREATE A DEDICATED EMAIL ADDRESS FOR QUERYING

I cannot stress this enough. For your own sanity and mental well-being, create a dedicated email inbox for agent correspondence. If you can manage it, DO NOT add this inbox to your phone. I didn’t use a dedicated email the last time I queried agents and it was a disaster. I used my catch-all inbox that I check several times per day and every time a notification popped in my heart rate spiked.

Don’t do this to yourself.

Get an email that you can only check from your computer or tablet and only open it when you are in the right headspace. Well, maybe check it at least every other day so you can keep on top of it, but check it when you are feeling prepared for whatever messages (or empty inbox – more the norm these days) awaits you.

Tip #3: TUNE OUT THE NOISE

I love reading and hearing about the querying journeys of other writers. I read a lot of publishing industry news, scroll through publishing professionals’ feeds on social media, and try to stay up to date with the latest. However, reading too deep into other writers’ woes or successes and biting on click bait headlines can be detrimental to your mental state during this time. Especially if you’re scrolling through headlines that read:

I QUERIED 10 AGENTS AND GOT 8 OFFERS OF REP

I QUERIED 213 AGENTS AND WAS 100% REJECTED

IF YOU DON’T HAVE A 10% REQUEST RATE YOUR QUERY SUCKS

Don’t go there. Don’t read these stories because it’s just going to induce anxiety, and isn’t there enough anxiety when you’re sitting down to check your dedicated inbox? I’m not suggesting sticking your head in the sand and ignoring the news, but be selective, and when you’re feeling especially down, stay away from ALL news. Go look at trees or sit in nature or watch a funny show or play with your pet. Bake something warm and cinnamon-y. Talk to a friend. Go wine tasting. Make tea. You get the idea. Practice self-care.

Now, tell me. Do you have any tips on how to stay sane while querying? I want to know!