Dos and Don'ts of an E-query

Although e-mail has generally been used for casual communication, an increasing numbers of editors, agents and publishers are now accepting queries by e-mail. Treat the opportunity in much the same way you would a query sent by snail mail.

• DO Address the appropriate editor formally and format the query in the e-mail as you would in a regular letter.
• DON'T send multiple submissions. E-mail is too easy to create. Personalize each query.
• DO proof your letter and use the spellchecker.
• DON'T send attachments unless the listed requirement encourages that.
• DO use the word "query" in the SUBJECT line, e.g., "Query for your How-To section."
• DO provide adequate contact information (under your signature): Along with your name, list your e-mail, and any land-line numbers you have, as well as your ground mail address. If you have a personal web site, that could also be listed.
• DON'T expect an immediate answer. As with any type communication, your query will be put in a stack, maybe even ignored or deleted.
• DO save a copy of your e-queries. Not only will this give you a list of contacts you've attempted, but it allows you to update an old query for a new market and send it again.