Following Up On Queries

Lori Widmer over at Words on a Page continues her beginning writing series with a post about How To Follow-Up on Queries. Her advice is good and she gives an example of both an email query follow-up and one by snail mail.

I’d add one more. Pick up the phone and call. Of course, sometimes you can’t locate a phone number, but often you can.

Call even if you don’t know who you’re calling. Chances are you’ll get a receptionist. Briefly describe what you want. Something like Hi, I’m (your name) and I sent a query called (title) three weeks ago. I’m just following up. Then shut up.

It’s amazing how often even a receptionist will help you figure out who you need to talk with and put you through.

If you get an answering machine, fine. Leave your message… briefly… with your phone number. You may get a call back.

Often enough, however, to make it worthwhile you’ll actually get to the editor in question. Stay brief, wait for your answer then ask what else are you looking for? Again, shut up and listen… stay quiet until the editor speaks. You’re bound learn something.

The premise here is that people truly do like to help. Helping makes them feel powerful and effective. A polite phone call will often get you either the assignment you originally sought or another one.

Write well and often,

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