Following the Rules
Many aspiring writers feel constrained by the array of apparently arcane rules agents and publishers impose on the publishing process. Sometimes the query letter seems like a waste of time and energy; wouldn't it be more efficient just to send your entire manuscript? Sometimes impatience gains the upper hand; you'd rather call an agent or editor about your project than wait a month for a response to your query. The myriad steps of submission, requests, and replies can seem like unnecessary obstacles to the eager writer, and the temptation to skip one or two is undoubtedly strong. But, believe it or not, these rules are designed to help both you and the agent or editor, not to keep you from getting your work published.
The sheer volume of material that crosses their desks every day makes it impossible for agents and editors to give prime consideration to every proposal or manuscript. This is why many won't read unsolicited proposals or manuscripts; they will only read material they requested on the basis of a query letter. Queries serve as a quick prescreening tool, allowing agents and editors to apportion their limited time most effectively.
Many publishers have tightened security in the past few years, and some of them even destroy unsolicited proposal packages these days rather than opening them or returning them to the sender. Your best bet is always to send out query letters, and save your proposal for those agents or editors who ask to see it.
Most agents and editors have a preferred method for receiving all your materials, from your query to your complete manuscript. These preferences are readily available in various directories, such as
Other common rules you should follow include the following:
Never call an agent or editor with a query or to find out what she thought of your proposal.
Always include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with any material you send.
Never send “gifts” (candy, money, flowers, etc.) with your queries or proposals.
Always respect the agent's or editor's time and experience.
When you break the rules, you do call attention to yourself, but not in a good way. Usually, you'll succeed only in irritating an agent or editor by failing to follow their guidelines, and that irritation can linger even if they like your work. Agents and editors are only human, after all, and their impression of a person can easily color their perception of that person's work. Following the rules may feel boring, but it will never hurt your image.
