At my office, we make every effort to respond to serious queries and proposals. Now, maybe the manufacturer of metal pins based in another country is serious, but we send those emails to the trash bin. Or more accurately, the image of a trash bin on the computer. At least that trash bin doesn’t require Hefty citrus-scented trash bags and is in no danger of attracting hungry bears. And by the way, I’ll never understand how or why the metal pin manufacturer found us, or why they think we’re in the market for such an item, since we construct books, not houses.
But I digress.
I HATE Writing…
My least favorite to write is always a rejection letter. Sending declines even for wildly unsuitable submissions is painful, because that author is trying.
Some authors ask for more feedback, but we don’t offer additional input on a firm decline. Why? Because another agent may LOVE what the author has written exactly as it appears and knows an editor asking for that type of project.
If you’re getting rejection letters, persevere and consider any feedback, even if you don’t agree. You can choose to incorporate feedback, keep trying other agents, or both.
And by the way? When an agent does offer advice, follow up because the back and forth may lead to an agreement for you to work together.
I LOVE Writing…
My favorite letters to write are pitch letters. I relish the chance to praise my clients. I can go on forever about how their writing is prize-worthy, and how wonderful they are as people and professionals. I’m just a bit partial, but I think my writers have the sweetest and most beautiful spirits in the industry.
Writing letters of praise may sound superfluous, but think about Proverbs 27:2:
Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips. (KJV)
My letters to editors on behalf of my writers show I support them and that I have every faith and confidence that the publisher will be successful with their work. After all, I signed the author. An agented author has shown the ability to garner an agent’s confidence. The author doesn’t have to say the equivalent of “I’m the best ever!” because we can instead!
Your turn: What’s the best feedback you’ve received? The kindest rejection letter?
