July 29, 2009
Writing a novel is extremely difficult, but it’s also a very rewarding and emotional process. Congratulations to you for finishing! Now that you’re done, and the manuscript has been edited and polished, you’re probably considering approaching literary agents. This is another extremely difficult process…and it typically starts with a query letter.
Most agencies do not accept unsolicited materials. The query letter allows you to introduce yourself to the agent, pitch the idea of your novel and make that agent want to read more. The hard part is fitting all of this into one page and making it interesting and informative. There are a few different parts of a query letter that are important.
Introduction
Remember that literary agents receive tons of query letters each day. It’s important to make your own stand out from the crowd. You have to hook the agent with the first few sentences of the query letter the same way you have to hook the readers with the first few paragraphs of your novel. Tell the agent why you’re writing, why you feel the novel is a good fit for their agency, and what the word count is. It might look something like this…
Dear Ms. Agent, (Remember to include the agent’s actual name. Don’t leave the introduction generic – show that you’ve researched and are willing to take the time to address each individual agent.)
My name is Vulnerable Writer and I’m writing today to tell you about my completed manuscript, ‘Great American Novel.’ It’s a fiction/drama and weighs in at 90,000 words.
Now, you’ve managed to introduce yourself and your novel in just a few sentences, which is great. Use the least amount of words possible to get an idea across, because agents are busy and you want them to continue reading rather than tossing the query letter into the trash!
Summary of the Novel
Next, you want to include a short summary of the novel that will pique the agent’s interest and get him or her excited about reading the full manuscript. This is very important if the agent’s going to ask for sample chapters or the whole manuscript. Think about the summary for a while, write and rewrite it until it’s perfect, and then have a few friends read it. It should be no more than a paragraph or two, and include the most important elements of the story. It might look something like this…
Megan is an ordinary girl who wakes up one day to find that her whole life has been one big lie…literally. She discovered it when she found the papers in her mother’s drawer. Her identity is false. To make matter’s worse, the guy she’s been in love with for the past two years lets her know in no uncertain terms – and in public – that he doesn’t share her affection. Megan’s brother, who is not really her brother, is the only one she can count on. Together, they embark on a journey to discover who Megan really is…and the truth shocks her to the very core.
Once you have the summary polished, you’re ready to move on to the next section.
Short Bio
In this part of the query letter, you’ll want to include some details about yourself. You don’t want to make this part boring, so include only information that the agent should know. For instance, if you’ve been published in the past or if you’re a new writer, the information should be in the query. Any relevant education, credentials or groups that you’re a member of might also be great information to include.
Example:
This is my first fiction novel and I’m excited to share it with you. I’ve researched your agency and feel that you’re the agent who can find my book a home. I am a member of the Fiction Writer’s Group and possess a degree in journalism from University.
With this part out of the way, you can include any research, statistics, facts or information that you’ve gathered about your novel’s genre. You might include what books are currently on the market that are similar to your book, but also how your book is different and stands out. Your agent is going to want to know where the book belongs in the store, and what the chances of success with the book are, so include what you know.
Example:
I feel that my book is similar to the wildly popular ‘Amazing Book,’ in regards to potential fan base and the human struggles within the book. However, ‘Great American Novel’ is also different in that the characters are more defined and individualized. In a survey where I asked 200 readers of similar genres to look at a summary of the book online and tell me whether they would be willing to purchase the book, 95% said they would be willing to pay the price to read the book.
Closing
The hard part of the query letter is over and now it’s important to close it properly. Simply thank the agent for taking the time to read the query and let them know that you hope to hear from them soon. It’s that easy.
Example:
I want to thank you for taking the time to read this query and I would love to send you some sample chapters or the full manuscript if you’re interested. I hope to hear from you soon and am excited at the possibilities of working with you to bring ‘Great American Novel’ to other readers.
Sincerely,
Vulnerable Writer
Don’t forget to include all of your contact details so that the agent can get in touch with you if he or she wants to request sample chapters or the full manuscript. If you’re sending the query through e-mail, you need to paste the query into the body of the e-mail. Most agents will not open attachments unless they specifically request them.
Other Tips for Writing a Query Letter
- You shouldn’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in the query letter. If your book is a comedy and you’re naturally a humorous person, a little light humor couldn’t hurt. However, it’s important to remember that the query letter should be professional and you shouldn’t speak in the letter as if you’re familiar with the agent.
- Once you’ve sent the query letter, there is nothing to do but wait…or craft query letters for other agents. Do not call or e-mail the agent asking about the query letter. You can be sure that real literary agents will review all query letters and if they’re interested, they will get back to you.
- Proofread the query letter before sending it. The last thing you want is for an agent to notice misspelled words or grammatical errors in the query letter…they will be dreading the book and the mistakes that must be present in it. If needed, have a friend read it or hire professionals to proofread it for you.
Getting Rejected
It’s inevitable. Most wildly famous and successful writers have received at least one rejection. So, what do you do when you get rejected? Politely thank the agent for their time and send out two more query letters. Eventually, if you’re persistent and your work is good enough, you’ll make it! Good luck.
Photo Courtesy of RichardDooling.com.
July 24, 2009
This summer, it’s not too late to enjoy an eco-friendly getaway or hit the greens at an eco-certified golf course. The latest earth-friendly blog posts from Priceless Writers touch upon vacation stays in a room paying homage to a popular frozen indulgence, meeting a master in green decorating, and tee time with musician Justin Timberlake.
If you require any content that spreads the word on respecting the environment or highlights your eco-friendly efforts, contact Priceless Writers – we offer a 10% discount for companies who actively support or supply green products or services.
Green Your Game: Timberlake’s Eco-Certified Golf Course Ready for Tee Time
By Danielle Bullard
The Green Queen: Eco-Designer Kelly LaPlante
By Samantha Cummings
8 Eco-Friendly Summer Vacation Getaways
By Yona Williams
July 22, 2009
Wonder how the entrepreneurs and business-savvy individuals in your niche are getting ahead of the game? One of the reasons could be that they are constantly wearing their thinking cap and taking full advantage of their time when away from the computer, outside of the office, and even on vacations. They use their off-time wisely – incorporating their business aspirations into all aspects of their life. This doesn’t mean you have to become a complete workaholic, ignore your family, and sleep with your business cards – simply think outside the box and get creative with the ways you market your business.
A couple of examples include:
The gym. Whether you’re taking an aerobics class or pumping iron, you’ll always bump into an interesting cast of characters at the gym. Some people can’t help but to strike up a conversation and dive into your personal life. Usually, the topic of ‘where you work’ comes up. This presents the perfect opportunity to network with potential clients, customers, or professionals in your same field. You never know when someone will need a good mechanic, lawyer, or chiropractor. Don’t forget to carry business cards in your gym bag.
A simple airport shuttle ride can turn into a time to network. I can’t tell you how many times I wish I had a business card handy when chatting it up with complete strangers while on vacation. Take advantage of a long airplane ride by listening to the traveler beside you. Some people have stumbled upon potential partnerships and new ideas just by lending an ear and engaging in genuine conversation.
Even when on vacation, you can still keep your business in mind.
Actively seek out potential business by becoming involved. Stop ignoring PTA notices. Lend a helping hand to the local baseball team. Support the Girl Scouts. Certain niches can benefit from community outreach. Try providing customized T-shirts for a local Little League for free to gain interest in your silk-screening business. Supply chatty parents with something to talk about with cookies from your bakery. Always keep business cards on hand. Also, pass out coupons to drum up further interest.
Image Credits: yoshiaka (bottom)
July 14, 2009
Calling all Transformers fans...this creation is 8 feet tall.
If you’re looking to purchase an extremely unique piece of recycled art or wish to send out eco-friendly wedding invitations to announce your special day, consider the following eco-blog posts that Danielle, Samantha, and Yona would like to share with you this week.
by Yona Williams
by Samantha Cummings
by Danielle Bullard
July 9, 2009
At Priceless Writers, we continuously work with clients who wish to make a positive impact in the world with green business practices and spreading the word regarding eco-friendly living. We spend a great deal of time keeping our noses to the ground – sniffing out the latest products, services, and information.
Each week, we will share with you some of the eco-blog work we’ve done. It is our hope that you might just start a composting pile in your backyard, support an artist that uses recycled materials, or simply help spread the word regarding earth friendly practices. Last week, Priceless Writers penned the following eco-blog posts:
By Danielle Bullard
By Samantha Cummings
By Yona Williams
July 8, 2009
It's important to think global!
What can the Internet do for you? As an entrepreneur, you are constantly thinking of new and inventive ways to push your product or sell your services. Somewhere between print ads, conference calls, and attending seminars, you have either created a website or thought about establishing an online presence. With all of the millions of websites floating about the World Wide Web, how will you take advantage of the Internet and use it to best benefit your business?
Reach New Clients and Markets
The World Wide Web is an ever-growing hand that stretches across the world to reach potential clients, consumers, and markets. With the help of the Web, you can locate the customers most interested in listening to what you have to say. Use the Internet to go beyond the typical parameters of location. Think outside the box. Think national. Pursue global prospects.
Feed Your Creativity
The software and online capabilities of today are absolutely amazing. Whether its providing website visitors with a helpful video demonstrating the benefits of your product or supplying live customer service, the Internet allows you to tap into the never-ending possibilities of your creativity.
Turn the “Interested” Into Customers
From a T-shirt shop in the mall to a brick and mortar business on the boulevard, the Internet can turn the casual observer of your business into a new customer. After a potential consumer has scanned your ad in the newspaper, heard someone else mention your company name, or passed by your store on the way home – a website can encourage the “interested” to walk through the doors of your business or order from your catalog once they’ve learned more about your business.
Create Repeat Business
With the help of email postcards, online newsletters, and your website, you can encourage repeat business from current customers or clients. A few ideas include:
- Send alerts regarding new products.
- Publish articles centered on your niche.
- List events and activities of interest.
- Email periodic coupons and discounts.
Kill the Confusion
In this day and age, it’s better to save time, money, and energy by reducing the number of bad leads that come when interested parties aren’t quite clear on who you are, your location, skills, and what you have to offer. A website allows you to “kill the confusion” regarding your business by answering important questions without ever having to open your mouth.
Boost the Impact of Press Releases and Ads
Press releases and other forms of advertisement inform the world about new businesses, products, and services hitting the marketplace. Capitalize on this connection with the public by allowing potential customers to gather additional details through your website. Keep in mind that this is a great way to bolster business sales.
Save Money
If you invest in printing and postage for your business, consider the prospect of saving money by replacing your printed materials with online advertising delivered through your website and email. Not only will you save a few bucks, but you’ll also place less strain on the environment.
Gain A Heads Up
A website allows you to gauge some of the most appealing aspects of your business. By routinely checking site stats, you can follow the surfing habits of visitors and get a sense of the products, services, and information attracting the most attention. This practice will also help you plan future events for your business, tweak advertising, order appropriate inventory, and predict sales.
June 25, 2009
Aim high but make sure you don't miss your mark!
Maybe you’re trying to impress new mothers who have virtually no time for themselves and very little sleep. Perhaps you have your sights set on middle-aged businessmen who seek luxurious lifestyles. Who you’re trying to impress depends entirely upon what sort of products or services you’re offering. The trouble is that it’s pretty easy to lose focus in trying to become desirable to everyone. Here is some valuable information on finding your target market.
What’s a Target Market?
If you’ve been in business for a while, you know that a target market is a group of people that are most likely to purchase your products or services. If you’re selling a weight loss pill, you might be targeting middle aged women who want to lose a few pounds. If you’re selling the most comfortable shoes ever – you might be targeting nurses or others who spend long hours on their feet. These are the people who need what you’re selling the most and who are probably more willing to buy it than anyone else.
Taking it a Step Further
Many businesses make the mistake of trying too hard to target a huge group of people – such as men, women, parents or people who own a car. When this happens, advertising and the message it carries becomes diluted. The thinking behind this is understandable; the more people you target, the higher the potential for sales, right? Wrong. Actually, if you send out a strong message to a highly targeted and smaller group – you will probably sell more. For instance, if you sell organic dog food to everyone who has a dog, you may get some people who are interested.
However, if you target eco-conscious people who own purebred dogs and get them regular vet checkups and grooming appointments, you will probably sell more. If you add that these people should be middle aged and financially stable, you will probably sell even more. The more targeted you get, the higher the potential of sales – if you’ve done the correct research and found the right group of interested individuals.
Give Them What They Want
Another important thing when it comes to target markets is giving them what they want. That market is seeking something – an easier solution, a time-saving product, etc. Give it to them. This is where market research becomes important. Find out who you’re selling to. Find out where they live, what kind of lives they lead, what they are seeking and what they’re settling for. Of course, you don’t need to become a stalker to do this – you can hire professional market researchers or perform the research yourself by visiting forums, sites, local events, etc.
While finding the target market may sound intimidating, it’s actually not. Look at who your major competitors are and the people they are going after. Perform market research and learn about the people you want to sell to. By doing this, your advertising dollars will be saved and your messages will pack a punch that customers can’t refuse.
June 15, 2009
Committing social marketing no-nos and don't even know it?
If you’re on the computer very often, you’ve almost certainly heard the terms ‘Web 2.0,’ ‘Social Marketing,’ and ‘Social Networking.’ In fact, they are a very important part of doing business online in today’s world. However, it seems that many business people and website owners aren’t quite sure what they should be doing in the Web 2.0 world.
Here are 5 things to avoid while taking advantage of social networking.
#5 – Do Not Neglect Your Social Networking ‘Friends’
These are the people you’ve added to your MySpace, Facebook, Digg or other social networking site. A lot of times, business or website owners will just add a ton of people in order to get their friend count up – and then ignore them. These are the people that will be voting for your site or blog. If they send a shout or recommend a page, take a serious look at it and let them know your thoughts.
This way, you can be sure that they will do the same when you send a page or a shout. Rather than adding a gazillion friends right off, look through the profiles and add friends who have similar interests as you. This will cut down on the chances of you getting pages or recommendations of things that you are not interested in at all.
#4 – Do Not Leave Generic Comments
When leaving comments on pages or blogs, read through the information and leave a comment that really adds to the conversation. If there’s one thing that irritates most social networkers, its comments like ‘nice post’ or ‘good job.’ What’s even worse is when you just get a little smiley face. Then you don’t know if they really even read the information.
Leave meaningful comments or comments that actually add some thought to the post. If you don’t have time, don’t leave a comment at all. Just return to the post later when you have a few minutes to actually comment in the correct way.
#3 – Don’t Get Too Personal
If you’re taking advantage of social networking sites in order to drive traffic to your business, you should maintain a professional image. Getting too personal is really not a good idea. I’ve read arguments, insults and some very colorful information while browsing through profiles and it’s not attractive. I kept thinking that I wouldn’t hire these businesses for anything – especially since they don’t know how to maintain professionalism in their own business.
If someone has written something that you don’t agree with, simply don’t comment. Or, comment in a professional way. Rather than telling the person how wrong and stupid they are, find something in their comments that you agree with. Then you can use a professional approach by telling them that you agree to an extent.
#2 – Never Post Something that Doesn’t Belong to You
People do it all the time – find an article that is well-written, remove the current links and add their own links back to their site. Never use someone else’s work at all without getting the proper permission. Not only does it make you look terrible in the online business world, but it is very illegal. Write your own content or hire a professional writer to do it for you.
#1 – No More Spam!
Do not spam your social networking friends with business information over and over again or leave spammy comments all over the place. This is one way to become quite unpopular in the social networking world. If you do it enough, you can even get your profile locked. There are ‘report this user’ buttons with each social marketing platform and since spam is the most annoying thing in the world, people will most likely report you. Only send valuable links or pages to people and never the same one more than once.
By avoiding these things in your social networking ventures, you can have a better chance of succeeding and really becoming a valuable and respected social networker.
June 4, 2009
Take the time to market within your own community.
Looking for new ways to market yourself? Become involved locally.
Image is all about perception, and if people see you as someone that cares about their local community, they will feel more inclined to deal with your business. Of course, make sure that you’re becoming involved for the right reasons – doing something with the sole intention of furthering your business is easily found out.
Some of the ways to give back to others include:
- Sponsor a local event or sports team.
- Offer yourself as a mentor for local school students.
- Build associations with worthy causes – cleaning up the local beach or park, for example.
Marketing yourself within your local surroundings will help define your business profile, whether your business is primarily an online or offline one. Once potential clients see your name in numerous areas, particularly if they’re areas that benefit others as well as you, then their natural inclination will be to do business with you. For this reason, marketing yourself is an essential and invaluable way to market your business effectively.
May 30, 2009
Don't count newspapers out when marketing your business.
While searching the Internet has become an obvious leader in providing information for curious consumers, business marketers still benefit from taking advantage of the many other advertising avenues waiting in the wings.
Let’s take the newspaper for example – from local PennySavers to the New York Times – this form of media continues to grab the attention of commuters, scrapbookers, avid readers, and those who simply enjoy lounging in bed with a morning cup of coffee.
Contrary to popular belief, there are plenty of people who cannot resist flipping through the Sunday comics, browsing the classified ads, and making contact with news and information that is tangible. Sadly, many business owners miss out on a valuable opportunity to tap into the local market when they ignore the power of the newspaper.
Advertising in Local or Regional Newspapers
If you are a small business owner, you must get the word out about your business, especially if you are new to the market. Advertising in the newspaper is a great place to start. However, don’t fall victim to assuming that a large, flashy ad will attract the most attention. Instead of focusing on size, concentrate on frequency. You will gain the best chance of reaching your target audience if you remain visible for a longer period of time. Tailor your ads to alert consumers that you are “the one” to call when it comes to solving a problem or making life easier.
Remember – display ads quickly lose their luster, especially when you can’t afford to keep posting on a regular basis. Choose an uncomplicated classifieds ad to enjoy effectiveness through repetition; and always include your website address so that interested individuals may follow up on your business.
If you’re tallying up the price for promoting your goods and services on a weekly basis (especially when it comes to the Sunday paper) – think again. Getting your name in the newspaper is easier and less expensive than you think. A few suggestions include:
1) Write a letter to the editor. Consider voicing your opinion about a topic that pertains to your industry, market or niche. This will provide a decent opportunity for you to mention your company or business.
2) Ship out press releases with an attached professional image or photo. This tactic helps the public associate a business name or company with a representative image. Brand recognition often plays an important role in persuading consumers to buy.
3) Sponsor an event that receives local coverage. Many times, advertisements are placed in the newspaper displaying the name or logo of sponsors who have contributed to a particular cause. This is also a great way to become a positive presence in the neighborhood.
4) Land a contributing writer position. Gain exposure for your business when you become a familiar face or voice in the community by writing a column in the local weekly or submitting articles to larger publications as a contributing writer. In your bio, make sure to include your website address and company information.
Photo Credits: Jean Scheijen AKA Vierdrie (top), Alvimann @ Morguefile (bottom)
Writing a novel is extremely difficult, but it’s also a very rewarding and emotional process. Congratulations to you for finishing! Now that you’re done, and the manuscript has been edited and polished, you’re probably considering approaching literary agents. This is another extremely difficult process…and it typically starts with a query letter.
