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Write the perfect CV and cover letter

When applying for a job or internship, your CV and cover letter should be well written and specific to the job you are applying for. Highlight transferable skills from previous experiences, even if they were unpaid or not directly associated with publishing. For example, an administrator needs to have good timekeeping, show attention to detail, and have strong written and verbal communication skills which are all transferable skills for an editorial assistant.

• Take care checking for typos – use tools to help you like grammarly.com , ask a friend to proofread it for you, and read it out loud to catch any grammar, punctuation, or spelling mistakes.
• Make sure you have tailored your CV to the role you’re applying for. Avoid using the same CV or cover letter for every application – it should be specific to the role and company you are applying for.
• Don’t make it too long – CVs should be kept to two pages. Avoid long paragraphs and keep your sentences short. Try bullet points to demonstrate your skills and responsibilities under each position.

For more careers advice from people across the publishing industry on what – and what not – to put on an entry level publishing CV, view this video:

Covering Letter Tips

Take time to write your cover letter. Ask yourself why you want this position at this particular company. What is it you love about the role? Why do you think you’ll be the perfect candidate?

Research the company and, where relevant, the imprint*, and tailor you application. Look at types of books and/or journals they publish, what recent successes have impressed you, and who are their competitors. Reading the Bookseller (a magazine specifically about the bookselling and publishing trades) and following publishers on Twitter are great ways to keep up with industry news!

Remember that your cover letter is not just an embellished CV – it is an opportunity to show you have your own ideas, are aware of industry trends, and (most importantly) can do the job. Work through the list of required skills provided in the job description and give examples of relevant experience. When giving examples, be specific and show results, for example “In my time running my football club’s Twitter account at university, I introduced weekly sports quizzes that doubled our followers from 50 to 100 in one month”.

Be honest if you don’t have any experience of a required skill and present it as an exciting opportunity to develop.

• Address the cover letter to the hiring manager. This is usually included in the job description. If it isn’t, don’t be afraid to contact whoever posted the job and ask.
• Always err on the side of caution and use formal conventions in any correspondence, e.g. “Dear Sir/Madam” or, if you know their name, “Dear [Ms/Mr/Mx] [Surname]”. Remember that every interaction with the company is an opportunity to impress so be polite and respectful. Sending too many emails to check up on the status of your application can be annoying for those involved in the hiring process, who may be juggling hundreds of CVs.
• The first paragraph should come straight to the point, for example: ‘I am writing to apply for the position of [role name] that I saw advertised in [media/agency]. Please find my CV enclosed.’
• Use key words from the job description and give concrete examples of your skills.
• Some companies will let applicants know if they are unsuccessful, but this is not always the case. If you don’t hear from a company after the deadline, you can probably assume that you won’t be offered an interview.

Interview Tips

Research is key! Find out everything you can about the company, the books or journals they publish, the people that work there, and, if you can, the people who will be interviewing you.

Be prepared to answer these questions in an interview:

• Why do you want to work at this company?
• Why do you want to work in this role?
• Tell us a bit about yourself.
• What are your biggest strengths?
• What is your biggest weakness?

It’s also a good idea to prepare examples of your creativity, problem-solving abilities and organisational skills. Using the job description, consider if there are any other key skills you may be asked to give examples of in the interview.

Always come to an interview with a list of questions and remember that you are also interviewing them! This is your opportunity to find out if the company is right for you – what is the company culture like? Are there opportunities for training and progression? Who are the rest of the team?

Build rapport with the interviewers by asking about their careers, what they like about working there, and what they hope the successful candidate will get out of the role. Finally, don’t forget to ask about the timeline and next steps for their final decision. This is especially important if you have multiple interviews in the same week as you may be offered another position while waiting to hear back from them.

*An imprint is a publishing term for subdivision of a publishing company. A publisher may have multiple imprints under the same division. In a very large company with several divisions, there can be hundreds of imprints, each with their own distinct list of books. To figure out where the team that you are applying to join fits within the overall structure of the business, visit the About page of the parent company. For example, if you are applying for a position at Penguin Random House, you can find a description of their divisions and imprints here .

How To Write A Killer Cover Letter to Publishers

May 20, 2015

A cover letter introduces you and your novel to potential publishers . This letter is your first point of contact between you and a publisher, therefore, it is crucial that aspiring authors know how to write a decent cover letter.

Here are three common questions, answered for writers looking to pave a successful path into the world of publishing with a cover letter that leaves an impression…

What do I need?

1. an ‘elevator pitch’ and hook.

An ‘elevator pitch’ is a brief and punchy summary of your novel that could be told to someone important between floors of a short elevator ride. Condense the core ideas of your novel in a dynamic and enthusiastic couple of sentences.

Remember that your cover letter should be no longer than a page, so this section can only take a up a paragraph or two. Show them why it’s worth reading and be sure to include a ‘hook’ – something that drags your reader into the story, and has them dying to know what happens next.

2. A target audience

Outline your target audience  to publishers and demonstrate an alignment to their publishing vision . A good way to start is by looking at previous novels they have published and whether these books fall in the same category as yours, and share a target audience.

Remember to be specific; publishers need more information than ‘Adult’. Include your audience’s age group, interests etc. if applicable.

3. Novel titles comparable to yours

Give two titles comparable to your novel (even better if they’re published by the publisher you’re reaching out to). This is a great way to establish direct relevance and relation to potential publishers.

More than that, it gives them an idea of where your novel will sit in the marketplace and how it will work with their existing list.

4. A word count

This is a simple and necessary inclusion to let publishers know how long your novel is.

5. A killer author bio

Be interesting, be readable and draw publishers in with who you are and what you intend to do with your work.

Here is also the place to list existing publishing credentials, and relevant education such as writing courses or degrees. You want to be able to get publishers to see that you are a capable, focused and passionate writer.

6. Contact details

Give yourself the opportunity to be contacted if the publishers decide to get in touch for further questions or discussions. Include your phone number, address and most importantly, your email address.

How do I put it together?

Put the above elements together in an easy-to-read, simple form. Keep sentences short, purposeful and in an active voice. The desired length of your letter should no longer than a page. Opt for 12pt standard font such as Times New Roman, and 1.5 spacing.

Many new authors make the mistake of attempting to detail their background, life achievements and a lengthy breakdown of their novel. Long, unnecessary paragraphs will irritate the editor, and an irritated submissions editor is not someone you want reading your life’s work and deciding its future.

In addition to being concise, remember to keep it error-free. Creatively written content may help you stand out, but keep in mind that your letter is still a business proposal.

It also goes without saying that a successful pitch leaves no room for error, so before you click send, proofread it again and again. Better still, have other writer friends review it and provide you with feedback.

Do I include my manuscript?  

Always follow the publisher’s submission guidelines. These guidelines are usually accessible on publisher’s website. The most common request is to include the first three chapters. In addition, you might also be asked for a synopsis (usually no longer than 300 words).

We cannot stress enough the importance of adhering to the guidelines. This shows that you care about the publisher’s work as well as yours.

Some other useful tips

• Address your cover letter by name. Avoid clichés such as ‘Dear sir/madam’ or ‘To whom it may concern’. It is more genuine and respectful.
• Use more formal language throughout the letter.
• Have a logical and readable structure.
• Thank the publisher for their time.
• Sign off gracefully – e.g. ‘Yours sincerely’ – before your name.

With these tips, you’re good to go!

This post was written by Natalie Ong Lih Tyng

Carmel JOYCE

Hello A cover letter introduces you and your novel to potential publishers. This letter is your first point of contact between you and a publisher, therefore, it is crucial that aspiring authors know how – “to” – write a decent cover letter.

Could you please correct the first sentence on this web page? I was told once that my emails, no matter how appealing, would be rejected because of a spelling mistake or a sentence that was not constructed correctly. I can not be a member of AWG as I do not have any credits for my drama script writing. I can not gain a credit until my work is accepted. How do I attract Australian publishers with Australian/British drama scripts without credits?

Claire Bradshaw

Thanks for pointing that out – things do slip through the cracks sometimes, but the sentence is fixed now!

As for your submissions: generally, book publishers won’t accept unsolicited submissions of play scripts or screenplays, no matter whether you’re a member of AWG or not. We’d recommend looking into more specific submission opportunities, such as Australian Plays ( https://australianplays.org/about/submissions ), and also visiting sites like Playwriting Australia ( http://www.pwa.org.au ) for more information and opportunities.

You might also like to purchase a subscription to the Australian Writer’s Marketplace ( https://www.awmonline.com.au ), which has a comprehensive directory that includes opportunities for plays/theatre and screenplays.

Best of luck with your writing.

Is it possible to have an example of a submission letter? Even if something general. Cheers!

Here’s a site with a list of examples of successful cover/query letters from different genres: http://www.adweek.com/galleycat/successful-query-letters-for-literary-agents/63594

Hope this helps!

Kathy Steinemann

Thanks, Claire.

Your third point highlights how important (and time-consuming) advance research is. A writer might have to read several novels to find two comparable titles.

Glad you enjoyed Natalie’s post! Definitely agree that research can take up a lot of a writer’s time – definitely worth it, though, if it improves your cover letter in the end!

Comments are closed.

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How to write a covering letter to a publisher, editor or agent

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The first thing publishers see when they open your submission package is the covering letter. It doesn’t matter how good your synopsis and sample chapters are, if this vital document fails to impress an editor or agent, then your submission will be rejected. So to ensure you make an excellent first impression, follow the advice of the experts

The first thing publishers see when they open your submission package is the covering letter. It doesn’t matter how good your synopsis and sample chapters are, if this vital document fails to impress an editor or agent, then your submission will be rejected. So to ensure you make an excellent first impression, follow the advice of the experts...

Find the right publisher for your manuscript

Before you start writing your covering letter, you need to find the right publisher for your manuscript. If your book is a non-fiction guide to growing your own vegetables, you need to find a publisher who produces non-fiction gardening books. Sending it to a publisher who specialises in short story romances will result in instant rejection. It is also essential that you check their submission guidelines and follow them precisely. They may specify how long the covering letter should be or what you should include.

What to include in your covering letter

Show off your strengths

The Writer’s Journey: From Inspiration to Publication demystifies the world of publishing and outlines the steps non-fiction writers need to take to present their work to agents and publishers professionally and with confidence.

For non-fiction covering letters, include:

• Compelling Key Sentence • what makes your book different • who it is for • your passion for writing it • your credibility as the author • a mention of your platform/key sales, marketing or promotional opportunities

For fiction covering letters, include:

• Compelling Key Sentence(s) • key themes/features of your story • genre • length • why you wrote the book • something about you/background • life experience • your influences as a writer, writing career • how you see the book in terms of the market ie who for, is it first in a series etc.

Points to remember when writing your covering letter

• Get the name of the publisher/editor right • State where you found their details and why you are approaching them • Tell the publisher about your book • Give your blurb or Compelling Key Sentence • Tell the publisher about yourself • End on a positive note

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Becoming a successful writer

Are you new to writing and wondering how to go about breaking into print? If so, this course can almost certainly help. It will help you find the field for which your own writing talents are best suited, and will show you how to produce the kind of material that editors and publishers in that field demand.

Polish Your Writing Style

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From Clever Girl Finance

How To Write A Publisher Cover Letter

Your first step in getting a publisher's attention is writing a publisher cover letter. It’s a simple yet powerful letter that can influence the future of your book.

In this article, you’ll learn about what a publisher's cover letter is, why it's important, and how to put one together.

You’ll also review a sample cover letter for more guidance when you create your own!

What is a publisher cover letter?

A publisher cover letter has the simple job of introducing you and your book to a publishing company.

In your book cover letter, you will state who you are and your experience. Not unlike a cover letter for a job. It’s essentially your elevator pitch.

But keep in mind that it’s also a letter to a publisher that can set your manuscript apart from the dozens of other submissions that publishers receive!

When do you need a book cover letter?

If you’re thinking of submitting your manuscript to different publishers then a book cover letter is an essential part of your submission package. This is because book publishing is a business.

And ideally, you want your cover letter to explain to agents or recruiters how your experience and your book will help their business grow.

Outside of the book publishing world, cover letters are also an important aspect when submitting manuscripts to journals.

What to include in a letter to a publisher

Constructing a publisher cover letter is like baking a cake. There are instructions to follow and you can’t write too much or too little or else the letter won’t be well received. Add too much salt or too little vanilla to a cake and it throws off the taste.

To write an ideal cover letter make sure you follow these instructions and include the following elements.

1. Start with an attention-grabbing introduction

The introduction of your book proposal cover letter is the most important part. According to Blue Pencil Agency, the first part of your letter should give details of your book such as title, genre, and word count.

After that, you want to hook them in with your second sentence . This sentence should describe the most interesting aspect of your book.

Following the hook, you’ll want to summarize the main points of your book by giving an intriguing synopsis.

You don’t want to share every aspect of your book, but instead, entice publishers to want to read more.

2. Include why you wrote your book and what makes your book interesting

Once you’ve got the publisher's attention, you can explain why you wrote your book and what makes it different. Use this section of your publisher cover letter to share your unique why.

What special experiences or knowledge do you have that motivated you to write this book? What are you hoping your audience will take away from the book?

Also, explain how your book differs from other books in its genre.

Are there more diverse characters? Does your book take a unique perspective for your niche?

Explain how your book stands out.

3. Share who your book is for

In addition to explaining your great storyline, you’ll want to mention your target audience. Who is your book for? Who is meant to read it?

This knowledge helps publishers when considering how marketable your book is.

4. Share your background as a writer

This part of your letter will focus on you as a writer. Whether you’re a new author, self-published, or have been previously published you’ll want to focus on different aspects of your career.

Here’s what to include in this section based on your experience.

New authors

If you’ve never been published, your book cover letter will focus on other written work and your fan base.

For instance, if you have a blog or group of followers on your mailing list you can mention that in your letter to a publisher.

If you don’t have a following you can share how your unique expertise makes you a credible writer.

For example, your can share how your field experience as an anthropologist helped you to build a more realistic and intriguing storyline for your historical fiction novel.

Self-published authors

If you’ve self-published before, you want to share about the success of your self-published book . Important things to share include rankings and feedback from readers.

Previously published authors

If you’ve previously published don’t be humble, share your achievements. Use this opportunity to share the success of your book.

Mention how many copies you sold, along with sharing some of the top reviews and endorsements.

Also, include how you’ve built a fan base or a following from your previous book.

5. Don't forget to add your contact details

To end your book proposal cover letter you’ll want to thank publishers for their time and include your contact details.

Make sure to include your name, address, telephone number, and email address. Without your contact information publishers can't contact you to move forward.

Key components

These key components are the most critical elements of your letter. Use these tips to increase the chances of your letter being read.

No more than one page

With the large volume of requests that publishers receive on a weekly basis, many publishers don't have the time to read lengthy requests. Keeping your book proposal cover letter to one page helps you to write concise and insightful information .

Aim to write around five paragraphs

To help keep your book cover letter to one page it’s best to write five paragraphs. By doing so you can avoid writing unnecessary information.

Don't make your book sample a part of the cover letter

When writing a cover letter for book submission, it can be tempting to want to include a sample of your book.

However, a publisher's cover letter is meant to be an introduction to your book and who you are as an author.

If you do include a book sample, it should be a separate document.

A sample proposal letter

In order to demonstrate how to put all the previous information together, below is an example publisher cover letter for a book submission.

Dear (Insert the name of publisher),

My name is Susie Que and I’m the author of the book Climbing to the Top, a 60,000-word non-fiction book. My book is an inspiring and impactful story that focuses on how rock climbing some of the most dangerous mountains taught me how to become stronger and how to excel in life.

This book will challenge you to examine your own fears and personal dreams and help you find the strength and resilience you need to achieve them. In this book, I provide the tools you need to move away from your comfort zone, face your fears and triumph over any obstacle.

What makes this book valuable is that I draw from my personal life experiences climbing over 30 summits. I did this while overcoming medical issues as well as mental health challenges. The surprising part is I'm over 40 years old, a wife, and a mother to two children.

My book is relatable to mothers, and women in their 40s and older who think that it's too late for them to have the success they desire.

I currently have a blog with over 100,000 readers and have been a guest on podcasts such as Ambitious Women, and Fearless Women.

Along with this, I currently have 300,000 followers on Instagram, and 120,000 subscribers on YouTube. I have a strong base of supporters and fans that will be eager to read Climbing to the Top.

Thank you for reading my letter. Attached are copies of the first three chapters of my book. If you’re interested in moving forward you can contact me at (insert phone number) or by email at ( insert email).

Sincerely, Susie Que

Related articles on getting writing a publisher cover letter

Enjoy this article? Check out articles related to writing a publisher cover letter!

• How To Get A Book Published: Self-Publishing Vs Traditional Publishing
• Writing A Book Proposal: A Great Book Proposal Template To Use
• How To Write A Book Pitch

Write a cover letter that publishers will love!

A cover letter for book submission has one main purpose. Your purpose is to get publishers interested in your book and have them believe in your capacity as an author.

You achieve this interest by hooking them in with the intriguing introduction in the first paragraph. Keep them captivated by sharing the most interesting details of your book.

Then you share your expertise as a writer and your experience in the field. And always end the letter with gratitude and your contact information.

If you're ready to publish your book, start with a stand-out letter to a publisher. Doing this can lead to getting a book deal and getting paid for your writing !

Kiersten Brown

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How to write a cover letter to a publisher.

Writing a Great Cover Letter Is Key to Publishing Your Manuscript

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure into the world of publishing? Whether you’re a seasoned wordsmith or a budding author, an attractive publishing cover letter is the golden ticket to capturing a publisher’s attention and getting your book on shelves. Though writing a cover letter can be a daunting task, fear not! We’re here to help unravel the mysteries of how to write an engaging, effective cover letter to a publisher.

Once you’ve got yours together, you can submit your cover letter and manuscript to our team here at Atmosphere Press!

A Thoughtful Opening

First, let’s talk about the basics: the salutation. It may be tempting to take the easy road and slap on a standard “To Whom It May Concern,” but this is a chance to personalize the letter and show the publisher you’ve done your homework. Avoid generic greetings that scream “copy and paste,” and instead do some research and address your cover letter to a specific person (usually the acquisitions editor of the publishing house). This will make your letter stand out like a phoenix rising from the ashes!

Generic: To Whom It May Concern, Personalized: Dear [Acquisitions Editor’s Name], Example: Dear Ms. Smith,

A Quick Hook

Next, your cover letter should include your name and a brief introduction to yourself and your work. Hook the reader and dazzle them with your passion. Share why you’re interested in their publishing house and why your manuscript is a perfect fit. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through. Remember, you’re not writing a résumé—you’re crafting a tale to bewitch the publisher. It’s important to keep it concise, as publishers receive countless submissions and don’t have time to read lengthy letters, no matter how engaging they may be.

Introduction: My name is [Your Name], and I am thrilled to submit my manuscript for your consideration. Example: My name is John Doe, and I am an avid fantasy writer excited to share my latest work with Atmosphere Press.

Pitch Your Book!

Now it’s time to weave your writing spells and cast a spellbinding synopsis of your manuscript. Keep it brief but punchy. Highlight the unique and captivating aspects of your story. Avoid spoilers and focus on the plot, characters, and setting. Use descriptive language that paints a vivid picture in the publisher’s mind and leaves them hungering for more.

Then let the publisher know why your manuscript will be a bestseller—cast a confidence charm! Share your target audience, market research, and any promotion ideas you have in mind. Show them you’re not just a one-hit wonder, but a writer who’s willing to put in the effort to make your book a success. Be bold, but not boastful, and let the publisher know you’re ready to rock the literary world with your words.

Blurb: My manuscript is a thrilling tale of adventure set in a world where magic reigns supreme. Example: My manuscript, The Chronicles of Eldoria , follows the journey of a young mage who must unravel the mysteries of an ancient prophecy to save her kingdom from darkness.

After pitching your book, let the publisher know what makes you the chosen one to pen this tale. Share your writing credentials, awards, and any relevant publishing credits. Don’t worry if you’re a rookie writer without a long list of accolades; you can still work magic by sharing your writing style, your love for the genre, and your unique perspective as an author.

Awards: I have received several awards for my short stories and poetry. Example: I am the winner of the 2023 Fantasy Writers Guild Short Story Contest.

A Strong Closing Statement

Finally, the closing flourish: end your publishing cover letter with a gracious goodbye. Thank the publisher for their time and consideration and express your sincere interest in their feedback or the opportunity to submit your manuscript for review. Avoid begging or pleading and maintain a professional tone. Leave them with a warm and positive impression, and they’ll be eager to take the next step on the publishing journey with you.

And there you have it—a guide to crafting a cover letter that will charm the socks off of any publisher. Remember, a well-written cover letter is the key to unlocking doors of opportunity in the publishing world. So, channel your inner wordsmith, sprinkle some humor and creativity, and let your cover letter work its magic! With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to enchanting your would-be publisher and getting your work published.

Gratitude: Thank you for considering my submission. I look forward to hearing from you. Example: Thank you for your time and consideration. I am eager to discuss how The Chronicles of Eldoria could find a home with Atmosphere Press.

Some bonus tips to make your cover letter even more enchanting:

— Avoid using clichés or overused phrases. Be original and let your unique voice shine through.

— Keep it professional. While humor and creativity are encouraged, make sure your cover letter maintains a professional tone and is free from any inappropriate language or jokes.

— Customize each cover letter! Avoid using a generic template and tailor your letter to the publisher you’re submitting to. Research their publishing house, submission guidelines, and recent publications to show that you’ve done your homework.

— Follow submission guidelines. Publishers often have specific guidelines for submitting cover letters and manuscripts; follow these meticulously to show that you’re a professional and detail-oriented writer.

— Proofread, proofread, proofread! Don’t let any sneaky typos or errors break the spell. Double-check your grammar, spelling, and punctuation, and consider asking a trusted friend or fellow writer to review your cover letter as well.

Further, there are plenty of online resources available to help you in writing a cover letter!

Writer’s Digest and The Write Life offer numerous articles, guides, and webinars on various aspects of the publishing process, including crafting effective cover letters.

You could also check out Query Shark , where literary agent Janet Reid critiques real query letters and provides insights into what works and what doesn’t in submissions to agents and publishers, or peruse Manuscript Wish List , a database where literary agents and publishers share their specific manuscript preferences. Writers can browse through the listings to get a sense of what publishers are looking for and tailor their cover letters accordingly.

Still Need Help Writing a Cover Letter?

Strange as it sounds, sometimes writing an effective publishing cover letter is one of the most difficult steps for even the most accomplished writers. What’s more, it’s just one step within the publishing process, alongside choosing the best publisher, ensuring your book is polished, and identifying the best target markets and audience for your book.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, our expert publication team at Atmosphere Press offers free publication consultations to help budding authors take the next step. Schedule yours today !

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Atmosphere Press is a selective hybrid publisher founded in 2015 on the principles of Honesty, Transparency, Professionalism, Kindness, and Making Your Book Awesome. Our books have won dozens of awards and sold tens of thousands of copies. If you’re interested in learning more, or seeking publication for your own work, please explore the links below. 

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How to Write a Cover Letter for Your Manuscript? Here are the Tips and Examples

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Table of Contents

A cover letter is often the first thing an editor reads when reviewing your submission. As your first pitch to the editor, the cover letter helps them gauge the suitability of your manuscript for publication in their journal. Imagine your work shaping the future of your field, gathering citations, and sparking discussions. A powerful cover letter is thus the first step to making that vision into a reality.   

In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing an effective cover letter and explain how you can get it right every time with examples. First, let us get started with the basics!  

Getting the Basics Right  

When writing a cover letter, it is crucial to address the editor by their correct and complete name¹ . If there are multiple co-editors, you can address your letter to the right person, based on their specialization or designated responsibilities. If unsure, it is okay to go with a more general salutation, such as “Dear Editors”¹ .   

Presenting your Research  

Provide a clear and concise title for your submission and specify whether it is an article, communication, review, perspective, or a manuscript belonging to some other category. If the journal guideline recommends, consider including a list of all authors in the manuscript.   

After covering the preliminary information, briefly explain your paper’s central theme or focus to give the editor an idea of its contents. Ensure this stays a brief outline, without going into too much detail.   

Conveying the Importance of Your Work  

How you communicate the impact of your work can make or break your cover letter. To make a strong impression on the editor, articulate the significance of your research clearly, emphasizing its relevance to the field. Additionally, show how your work aligns with the journal’s scope and mission.  

Including a Formal Declaration  

Some journals require a set of declarations from you to ensure that your manuscript adheres to its ethical code and the larger ethical standards of scientific publishing. Here are the required declarations in a cover letter:  

• Originality of work:  
• Confirm that your work is original and has not been published elsewhere. This tells the editor your research is unique.  
• Conflict of interest statement:  
• Be clear about any potential conflicts of interest. This includes any personal, financial, or professional connections that might affect your research.  
• Funding source (if applicable):  
• Tell where your research funding came from, if any. This includes any support or grants from organizations.   

Including Personal Suggestions for Reviewers on a Separate Page (optional)  

If there is no part of the submission process that collects researcher suggestions for reviewers, and there are special requests from the researcher for reviewers (e.g., recommending the inclusion or suggesting the exclusion of a specific reviewer, etc.), you may also make a note about this in the cover letter.  

Combining these five points, here is a good example of a cover letter for researchers’ reference:  

(This image is intended to demonstrate the norms of formatting and tone of expression in a cover letter, it is to be used only by the researcher as a reference in writing² .)  

Conclusion  

A strong cover letter can go a long way in ensuring success for researchers looking to publish their manuscripts! Your cover letter is the opening act, setting the stage for how editors perceive your manuscript. So, look at it not as just another formality but as a crucial opportunity to make a strong impression.   

Understanding what to include, what is optional, and what is best left unsaid can be tricky. That is where our team of experts at Elsevier Language Services can step in. We will provide personalized recommendations and expert guidance to help you craft a cover letter that perfectly complements your manuscript. Reach out to us today to make a great first impression and embark on a successful academic journey!  

Reference  

• Nicholas, D. (2019). How to choose a journal and write a cover letter. Saudi Journal of Anaesthesia, 13(5), 35. https://doi.org/10.4103/sja.sja_691_18  
• Loyola University Chicago. (n.d.). JCSHESA Sample Cover Letter. https://ecommons.luc.edu/jcshesa/cover_letter_template.pdf  

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Looking for more in Writing and Authors or Getting published: submitting to a publisher ?

Getting published: cover letters

Your cover letter might be the very first thing a publisher or agent reads about you, so it's important to take the time to get it right. Here are a few tips on how to strike the right tone and what kind of information to include.

Follow the submission guidelines

This might seem a little obvious, but it's honestly very important. Guidelines vary widely, so double check that you're including all the details asked for. 

Give concrete examples of your writing credits

Rather than saying things like 'I was born to write', include facts or examples. Like, 'I've had short stories published online', 'I won a local writing competition' or 'this is my second full length manuscript'.

Be canny about including information

It's great to share things you've done to develop your writing, including relevant courses or training, but don't overload your letter with everything you've ever done. Pick one to two to focus on.

Personalise your message

You may be sending a cover letter to many different people, but never, ever send a group email. You are asking someone to take the time to seriously consider your work so it is important to personalise your email or letter.

Focus on the positives

Getting published can be a long and sometimes difficult road and it can be tempting to mention how hard it's been for you. This is not the place to do it. Don't disparage any other publishing professionals and keep your letter as positive as possible.

Keep it simple

It can be tempting to try and get your work noticed with the help of a gimmick or gift along with your cover letter, but agents and publishers are looking for someone with work that speaks for itself.

Other resources

Looking for some more advice? Writers & Artists (this link will open in a new window) have a variety of guides and information about submitting to agent and publishers. For advice on funding proposals and applications, the Cultural Enterprises Office (this link will open in a new window) has some handy resources.

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How to write a cover letter for journal submission

Download our cover letter template.

When you submit your article to a journal, you often need to include a cover letter. This is a great opportunity to highlight to the journal editor what makes your research new and important. The cover letter should explain why your work is perfect for their journal and why it will be of interest to the journal’s readers.

When writing for publication, a well-written cover letter can help your paper reach the next stage of the manuscript submission process – being sent out for  peer review . So it’s worth spending time thinking about how to write a cover letter to the journal editor, to make sure it’s going to be effective.

To help you, we’ve put together a guide to explain how to write a cover letter for journal article submission. You will receive cover letter instructions of what you should include and what you shouldn’t, and a word template cover letter.

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Taylor & Francis Editing services has a high quality premium editing package to make you feel confident to submit.

Customized cover letter

Feedback on original writing

Complete language check

Extensive revisions.

What should my cover letter include?

Before you start to write, please check the  instructions for authors  (IFAs) of your chosen journal, as not all journals will require one. You should also check the IFAs for any journal specific information on what to include. This may include a list of relevant articles written by you or your co-authors that have been or are currently being considered for publication in other journals.

Key points to include in your letter to the editor:

Editor’s name (you can usually find this on the journal page on  Taylor & Francis Online ).

Your manuscript’s title.

Name of the journal you are submitting to.

Statement that your paper has not been previously published and is not currently under consideration by another journal.

Brief description of the research you are reporting in your paper, why it is important, and why you think the readers of the journal would be interested in it.

Contact information for you and any  co-authors .

Confirmation that you have no  competing interests  to disclose.

Things to avoid:

Don’t copy your abstract into your cover letter, instead explain in your own words the significance of the work, the problem that is being addressed, and why the manuscript belongs in the journal.

Don’t use too much jargon or too many acronyms, keep language straightforward and easy to read.

Avoid too much detail – keep your cover letter to a maximum of one page, as an introduction and brief overview.

Avoid any spelling and grammar errors and ensure your letter is thoroughly proofed before submitting.

Click to enlarge your PDF on key information to include in your cover letter .

Cover letter template

If you need further help to write a cover letter for a journal, you can download and use our sample template as a guide.

You might find that the submission system for your chosen journal requires your cover letter to be submitted into a text box rather than as a separate document, but it is still a good idea to write a draft first to make sure you have included everything.

Always make sure to check the journal’s  instructions for authors  for any specific additional information to include.

Submission ready

Use our submission checklist  to make sure you’ve included everything you need to.

If you need more guidance, take a look at our other  information and resources to help you make your submission .

Rapid constructive feedback

Consider the Taylor & Francis Rapid Technical Review service to help you meet your deadline, through peer-review-like comments on your manuscript.

Related resources

Journal submission support

Guide to improve your submission experience

Article submission checklist

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When you are preparing to submit your finished story to an agent or publisher, it can be rather daunting. First, you need to decide whether you are going to approach an agent, a publisher, or both simultaneously. Once you have decided, you need to write the cover letter to accompany your manuscript – but how do you make the perfect pitch to an agent or publisher?

The importance of a cover letter

This is your introduction to an agent or publisher and an opportunity to concisely provide information about your book and yourself. First impressions count, so make sure it’s brilliant. (No pressure, then). Check there are no errors in the letter, such as spelling or grammatical mistakes and also ensure you have the correct name (and spelling!) of the person you’re writing to. Don’t distract an overworked editor or agent with fancy fonts or gimmicks. Just keep it simple and keep it clear. You want to leave the reader feeling confident that:

• You are familiar with the market and that there could be a place for your book.
• Your book itself will be worth reading.
• You could be a good author to work with (writing credentials aren’t essential for this – just follow submission guidelines, proofread your letter and make the effort to research the publisher/agent and authors they work with).

How to write your letter

Think of your letter as having a beginning, middle and end. There’s no precise formula, as long as everything that needs to be included IS included. A letter might look like this:

Beginning – this introduces yourself and your work. What age group is your book aimed at? Genre? Word count (this shows you know the market, and your word count is appropriate for the age range)? Why have you approached this agent/publisher specifically? It’s fine to submit to several places simultaneously, but out of courtesy, mention if other agents or publishers are also reading your manuscript or whether this publisher/agent has it exclusively.

Are there published books with a style similar style to yours? Mentioning these will not only give agent/publishers a feel of your book and where it might be placed, but it also shows you’ve read widely and are familiar with the market.

If nothing really springs to mind, don’t worry. If you say it’s like Harry Potter and it clearly isn’t, your reader will just think you’re wasting their time.   

Middle – this is your big chance to showcase your book. Write a few lines with the bones of the plot, without revealing everything. If you’re writing a funny book, it can be a good idea to include an element of humour, too.

You can start with a concise pitch, which can help focus your reader’s attention. Using a logline like the ones you see on Netflix descriptions can help. One well-used formula is:

When (inciting incident happens) (character) must (do something) in order to (accomplish something).

There are other ways to communicate the information, however. You could introduce your pitch with a tagline – those witty, concise descriptions (which often come in threes), like the phrases at the bottom of a cinema poster. Or you could include memorable, impactful quotes from your story. Or you could pose questions to the reader.

Look at these examples for my middle-grade debut, The House At The Edge of Magic:

• When pickpocket Nine steals a house ornament which transforms into a full size magical house, she must break the curse which traps the mysterious residents in exchange for her heart’s desire: freedom.
• A witch’s curse. A hidden treasure. A wizard in fluffy slippers. Welcome to the House At The Edge Of Magic.
• Sometimes you are a whisper away from magic without even realising it. When pickpocket Nine accidentally steals a cursed house ornament, her life is about to change. Can she break the curse and secure her own freedom before the clock strikes 15, time runs out and her chance is lost forever?

End – after you have pitched the book itself, let the reader know a little about yourself. Do you have any writing credentials or writing experience? Have you attended writing festivals or courses? Agents like to know you’re capable of producing more than one book, so it’s helpful to give a brief outline of other stories you’ve written or works in progress.

Choosing where to submit

• Research agents – who do they represent? What books do they like? Have you heard of their authors? Follow them on Twitter to see whether this could be the agent for you. Attend webinars or talks where agents are speaking if possible.
• Follow publishers on Twitter, read their blogs, ‘like’ their Facebook page – how well do they promote their authors? Which books do they love at the moment?
• Do the publishers / agents have similar books to yours on their list?
• Do they accept books for your targeted age range? Some don’t accept picture books, or rhyming texts, or fantasy, or young adult books. Always double-check before you submit.
• You can use books or magazines (e.g. Children’s Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook ) to research agents and publishers but always visit their websites for up to date information.
• READ SUBMISSON GUIDELINES – submitting without reading them may lead your story to be rejected.

The road to publication isn’t always easy but with a good submission and a perfect pitch, you stand a far better chance. So good luck and happy submitting!

Sample lette r

Top Secret Location

The Depths of My Imagination

Dear CAREFULLY RESEARCHED NAME INCLUDING PRONOUNS IF APPROPRIATE,

A witch’s curse. A hidden treasure. A wizard in fluffy slippers.

Welcome to The House At The Edge of Magic.

I hope this finds you well. I’m delighted to send you the synopsis and first three chapters of my novel, The House At The Edge of Magic. I heard you speak at a webinar run by SOMEONE where you expressed an interest in funny books and fantasy, so I thought my story might be of interest.

The House At The Edge of Magic is a 30,000-word comic fantasy adventure for middle-grade readers.  When orphan pickpocket Nine plucks a beautiful ornament from someone’s purse, she’s sure her bad luck is about to change. But when her treasure grows into an enormous house full of magic, mystery and ridiculous residents, she learns the house is under a terrible curse. If Nine can break the curse before time runs out, she will be given something in exchange. Something which she longs for with all her heart: freedom. But time is running out, and someone is watching her every move. The race is on.

With flavours of Dianne Wynne-Jones’ Howl’s Moving Castle and Alice in Wonderland , against a backdrop of Oliver Twist , this story has heart, humour and more than a sprinkling of mischief.

This is my first middle-grade book, but I have been writing picture books for several years, and recently attended a Writing Fantasy and Magic course by Amy Sparkes. I am currently working on a chapter book series about a pig-obsessed princess who lives in a sock, and a picture book about Maud the Carrot who decides to rule the world.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I hope you enjoy it!

Best wishes,

Amy Sparkes

www.amysparkes.co.uk

OPTIONAL FOOTER WITH CONTACT DETAILS

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How to Get Into Publishing

Tips to help navigate the process of finding a career in the publishing world..

Thank you for your interest in Penguin Random House! The ins and outs of breaking into book publishing have long been opaque. As part of our efforts to build a more diverse community of employees and create more pathways to publishing, we’ve created this guide to help demystify the process. While these tips and resources are predominately for entry-level or mid-level professionals, there are takeaways that can be utilized at all levels of a publishing career. This guide highlights our processes at Penguin Random House, and you may find some differences from company to company.

Step One: Educate Yourself

Find out as much as you can about the company and the overall industry. Bookjobs.com is a great resource to get started. Book publishing is a complex industry, and being well-versed in how it all works can feel daunting. Don’t worry — there’s no need to have it all figured out before you apply for a position at PRH, but here is a glossary of publishing terms that will help get you oriented.

Penguin Random House U.S. is a 5,000+ person organization made up of five publishing divisions, many corporate departments, and several distribution facilities. Positions within corporate areas such as Consumer Marketing, Diversity Equity and Inclusion, or Finance focus on Penguin Random House as an overall corporation. Conversely, a position within a publishing division focuses on the books published by that division or a particular imprint within that division. An imprint is the name applied to a publisher’s line of books — for example, Berkley is a romance, sci-fi/fantasy, and mystery imprint within our Penguin Publishing Group division. We have roles that fit a diverse range of expertise and interests, so be sure to browse our open positions frequently! 

Many people believe you need to be an English major to pursue a publishing career, which isn’t true. There are many jobs within publishing, and we don’t require a college degree for most of our roles at Penguin Random House. Here are some of the areas of our industry that various majors and backgrounds may translate well to.

Follow social handles for publishing houses and imprints (follow the PRH Instagram , Facebook , Twitter , and LinkedIn accounts). This is a great way to stay up to date with the books that are being published, what is trending, and what the overall feel for a particular imprint or publisher is.

Step Two: Get Yourself out There

Network in any capacity that you can.  Whether it’s through platforms like Twitter or Reddit, volunteer opportunities through organizations such as We Need Diverse Books , or connecting with alumni groups, there are many ways to forge meaningful relationships with members of the publishing industry. Networking in a virtual world has its own unique challenges but might also open doors that traditional networking cannot. For example, virtual coffees or events with individuals from different states or countries are now possible without leaving your home, making these meetings far more convenient and accessible. 

Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals at the companies and within the areas of publishing that you are interested in. Reach out to any peers you have commonalities with. Whether you attended the same school, live in the same town, or simply have the same interest in publishing, these shared experiences may bolster your connection with someone. When reaching out, introduce yourself and touch on any shared interests or experiences in a brief message – anything that may help the conversation flow naturally.

Penguin Random House is committed to building a more diverse workforce, which is equitable and inclusive for everyone. We Need Diverse Books , POC in Publishing , Blk + Brwn Book Designers , Latinx in Publishing , and Disability in Publishing are a few great resources for members of marginalized groups who are interested in publishing to build community.

We love finding non-academic organizations with whom we can forge new partnerships. Please complete this form if an organization you are affiliated with would like to partner on information sessions, networking events, and more.

Additionally, we partner with colleges and universities across the country to provide greater access to early career opportunities like internships and entry-level positions. Through our campus partners, we can offer candidates varying levels of priority and access to tailored programming for their respective campuses and students.  

Would you like us to consider including your college or university, or high school, in Penguin Random House’s outreach efforts? Some possible offerings, if selected for inclusion, are invitations to publishing information sessions, panels, and other networking opportunities. To request a school to include in our outreach efforts, click here .

Apply to an internship program. Many publishing houses, including Penguin Random House , as well as literary agencies and book reviewers, offer internship opportunities. These are a great way to learn about the industry, give you some relevant experience, and may help you decide what area of publishing you are interested in pursuing. Penguin Random House offers paid remote internships in the spring, summer, and fall.  

You don’t need publishing experience to pursue an internship at Penguin Random House. When applying, be sure to highlight any of your life, educational, and work experiences that would lend themselves to the responsibilities listed in the program you’re applying for. Information on how to best tailor your resume and cover letter can be found in Step Three of this guide.

We partner with many organizations to help expand the representation of our internship recruitment efforts. Some of these partnerships are with Project Basta , Bottom Line , Prep for Prep , Center for Communication , and Sigma Tau Delta . Depending on your situation, it might make sense to join an organization like this, which may include access to networking events, educational opportunities, and inside access to job postings. Some of these organizations have requirements such as being actively enrolled in college, so check out their respective websites to ensure you meet their qualifications.

Step Three: The Application Process

View our open jobs on the Penguin Random House Careers site .  For information on new roles, resume and cover letter tips, and more, follow our Careers Instagram , Facebook , and Twitter pages.

Read through the job description. The job description is carefully crafted by the Hiring Manager(s) and Recruiter to find candidates that fit the needs of the role and will include what the key aspects of the position are.

Research. If, for example, you aren’t familiar with the particular imprint of a role you’re applying for, search the company website for the genres and titles they publish. If you enjoy contemporary romance novels and the open job exclusively publishes westerns, perhaps there is an imprint that would better suit your interests. Once you discover the imprints you think you’d enjoy working for, make sure to state why in your application and/or cover letter. 

A strong resume can help you stand out. Each individual open role has its own requirements. If your experience matches the job description, be sure to present your credentials in a way that reflects those specific needs. Not sure where to start? For more information on crafting an effective resume, click here .

Another way to grab a Recruiter’s attention is through a cover letter . Not all of our postings require cover letters, but for those that do, it’s important to include one. As a publishing company, we’re passionate about the written word and would like to hear your distinctive voice. We want to know why you want to work in publishing, what you like to read or what other media you consume, and what your communication style is like. A cover letter is also an opportunity to express how your skills and experience, as well as your interests, align with the position.  

Canva has fillable templates that make resume and cover letter building easy. (And it’s free!)

In both your cover letter and resume, utilize keywords that show the link between your skills and interests and the job requirements. Keywords are words and phrases that relate to specific skills, abilities, and other qualifications that employers look for when screening applicants. Many keywords can be found in each job description as they represent the core requirements of the position. For example, if one of the bullets in the job description is “excellent communication skills,” you may want to include prior experience you’ve had as a tutor or public speaker on your resume. Then, in your cover letter, explain how you would apply these skills to the role you’re applying for.

Most of our open jobs are remote-friendly! You may be eligible for employment at Penguin Random House if you live and can legally work in the United States. If you’re only interested in remote positions, be sure to state that in your cover letter. 

Following the steps and advice in this guide will ready you for success in your job search at Penguin Random House and across the publishing industry. Good luck kickstarting your publishing career – we hope to come across your application soon!

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How to Write a Cover Letter for a Book Submission

If you’re wondering how to write a book submission cover letter, first of all: congratulations! You’ve written a whole novel , and edited the completed manuscript so it’s ready to submit to literary agents . That’s a huge achievement!

While the world of publishing and the manuscript submission process might seem opaque, we’re very lucky here at The Novelry. We have a whole team of experienced authors and editors who have been on both sides of the process – so we know how to write query letters that really grab literary professionals’ attention.

Read on for our top tips on crafting the perfect cover letter. Remember, the cover letter is one of the most important ways to ensure the package you submit stands out from the crowd.

While you’re here, be sure to look over other articles in our creative writing blog – they’re full of tips and tricks for navigating the publishing industry. For example, you can find advice on how a writer can create the perfect hook for a novel , and how to write a synopsis to go with it. You might also want to cast your eyes over our tips on how to start a story and write a great first paragraph.

Plus, you can read this article with a literary agent’s advice on novel openings so that your first three chapters are as strong as they can be.

And if you really want a tip-top submissions package, sign up to one of our creative writing courses. Our structured programmes will take you step by step through the novel-writing journey, ensuring your book aligns with the publishing market at every stage: from a cracking idea to a beautifully formatted manuscript. You get one-to-one coaching from a bestselling author in your genre, and access to a roster of professional editors who can whip your manuscript into shape. Plus, we work with the leading literary agencies in the UK and the USA, and we know exactly what they’re looking for!

And always, always remember to read the instructions on each agent’s and publisher’s website before you even think about putting together a submissions package.

But above all, do away with any fear or nerves: manuscript submission really isn’t scary stuff! It’s all very straightforward, and agents are on your side ! They want to share great stories with the world. Think of this as another stepping-stone to seeing your book on the shelves, not an obstacle.

The basics of writing a book submission cover letter: tone

The first thing to establish before you start writing the cover letter for your book is the tone.

It can be a difficult balance, and – understandably – a significant choice for a writer. After all, this isn’t a cover letter to apply for any old job where your writing prowess might not be a huge factor. This is your chance to prove your prose is worthy of agents’ extremely limited time.

The temptation to show off your skills and your writing style might be strong. But remember: that’s why you submit sample chapters. Think of this more as a business letter. Keep it professional, to the point and easy to read. Keep your word length and sentence length in check; this is no place for purple prose.

Some writers also hope their query letters will convey their personality – and so they should! If it feels right, feel free to add a splash of dry humour, and give the agent an idea of who you are (without recounting your entire life). But again, maintain a balance and stay on the professional end of the spectrum rather than going all-out wacky.

A brief note on conveying your personality: be sure to write in the first person, as yourself. Some people think it’s kooky or endearing to write their letter as their protagonist. It might feel original, but unfortunately agents have seen it before, and few will be amused.

Above all, proofread, then proofread again, and then proofread a final time. You might even ask a friend from your writing group , or a savvy editor, to give it one more proofread for good measure. What you really don’t want in your cover letter is a grammatical or spelling mistake. You’re selling the agent on your writing – keeping it error-free is the bare minimum!

Key elements of cover letters in publishing

Once you’ve thought about tone, consider the topics your cover letter should address.

There are five key elements in the query letter that writers send with their book submissions:

Generally, you’ll write a cover letter that hits those topics, probably in that order.

The word count

Before we think about how you’ll address these elements, and how much of your cover letter each will take up, it’s worth thinking about the overall word count.

Again, you might find yourself wrestling your writerly instincts (even if you’re fond of writing short fiction…). You need to keep your covering letter short and snappy. After all, you don’t want the agent to spend all their time reading just your letter. You want them to turn to your manuscript as soon as possible, and get right into those three sample chapters (or however many their guidelines request).

At most , your pitch letter should take up one page (in a legible font size, please. We know your tricks!)

1. Writing the hook for your book submission

The very first thing in your letter will likely be your hook. It’s right there in the name; its job is to hook the reader into your fiction.

As we mentioned, you can get in-depth advice on how to write a great hook for a novel in a dedicated article, but we’ll give you some brief pointers here.

It should be a very short paragraph, which includes the title and genre of your novel, along with the pitch or hook. Put simply, it will go: ‘[TITLE] is a [GENRE] in which [PITCH]’ .

The hook should be (ideally) a single sentence, and sum up the premise of your book. To nail it, you’ll want to consider these factors:

• What your novel is about
• Who it’s about
• What’s at stake for your protagonist
• What stands in their way
• What they must do to achieve their goal

Some writers find it helpful to use titles of works they’re comparing their novel to, often in the ‘X meets Y’ format, or ‘X but in Z setting’. For example:

• Alien was pitched as ‘ Jaws but in space’
• George R.R. Martin’s pitch for A Game of Thrones was ‘ Lord of the Rings meets the War of the Roses’
• Our writing coach Katie Khan’s debut novel, Hold Back the Stars , was pitched as ‘ Gravity meets One Day ’

If there are titles or concepts that fit, this can give agents an immediate idea of what to expect in your manuscript.

Plus, you’re offering proof of concept. That’s integral to any compelling business proposition, but it’s especially important in the world of publishing. While the industry has risk-taking pretty much baked in (given only around a third of published books are profitable), there’s still hesitancy around signing books with a premise that’s completely untested.

Which brings up another important point: don’t make the mistake of comparing yourself to an outlier or phenomenon (like Harry Potter , The Da Vinci Code or Fifty Shades of Grey ). Not only could you come across as a little self-aggrandising, but not all agents want to bet on outliers. They might prefer the security of a surer thing.

2. The story paragraph

Once you’ve given the basic hook, you’ll be relieved to know that you have another, longer paragraph to summarise your story.

This is one of the most essential parts of your cover letter. Importantly, it sits apart from your hook, synopsis, chapter outlines and/or sample chapters.

To give you an idea of what you’re aiming to write, it’s akin to the blurb written on the back of book covers. It should be stirring and pithy. It should also make it clear what question will drive readers to the novel’s end from its very beginning.

Make it as intriguing as you can and feel free to end on a cliffhanger. The agent needn’t know the entire story at the point of submitting. Plus, they’ll usually have requested a more detailed synopsis as part of the submissions package, so they’ll turn to that if they want more detail. Or they might even ask to see the full manuscript! But this letter is your chance to grab their attention and stick in their memory.

While you want to distil the essence of your whole novel into this section, do try to keep the focus on its beginning, the part that makes us keep going. That’ll make the literary agent want to read the rest of your materials!

One fact you should always include is the total number of words in your full manuscript.

Examples of story paragraphs

To give you an idea, here are a couple of examples from popular books. We’ll put the novel after the paragraph, so you can see how easily identifiable the work should be from its brief description. Hopefully it will give you an idea of the amount of detail to go into.

Mrs Bennet wants nothing more than to secure good marriages for her five daughters and is thrilled when a wealthy young gentleman rents a nearby manor. When middle daughter, Elizabeth, is first introduced to eligible bachelor Fitzwilliam Darcy, she finds him cold and arrogant – and he seems unimpressed by her quick-witted charm. However, as the weeks pass, both Darcy and Elizabeth find themselves reconsidering their first impressions. — Summary for Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Summers span decades, winter can last a lifetime and the struggle for the Iron Throne has begun. It will stretch from the south – where heat breeds plots, lusts and intrigues – to the vast and savage eastern lands, all the way to the frozen north where an 800-foot wall of ice protects the kingdom from the dark forces that lie beyond. Kings and queens, knights and renegades, liars, lords and honest men... All will play the Game of Thrones. — Summary for A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

As you can see, neither is especially literary or complex in its language, but each gives the reader a sense of the tone of its corresponding novel. Likewise, without giving away the whole plot or spoiling the ending, we have a very good idea of where the stories will take us.

3. Addressing the market in your cover letter

We touched on the notion of staking your novel’s place in the market in your ‘hook’ paragraph. If you didn’t do it in your hook, this paragraph is your chance. If you did, now you can dig a bit deeper.

In any pitch letter, you should align your work with other things that have been successful.

It doesn’t have to take the form of ‘X meets Y’. You could just write something simple, like ‘people who enjoyed Example Book will also enjoy my novel’, or ‘This novel would sit comfortably in a bookshop alongside Example Book and Another Great Book ’.

Of course, this requires a deep and very up-to-date awareness of your genre. While it’s good to have an appreciation of the classics, it’s often best to draw parallels with recent successes and show you understand current trends in your cover letter.

Some good avenues include:

• Reading bestseller lists (like the Sunday Times or the New York Times)
• Browsing bestselling titles of online retailers like Amazon
• Checking which books are stocked on supermarket shelves (and particularly those that stick around for months)
• Seeing what bookshops have in the windows and on the front tables

Bonus points if you mention authors represented by the agent you’re querying! (And a stern reminder to be very mindful of copying and pasting cover letters from one agent to the next; they should be carefully personalised each time.)

This section should make it easy for a literary agent to identify your target audience. It will give them clues as to which editors and publishers they can pitch your novel to, and how it can be marketed after publication.

4. Mention the agent in every cover letter

We just touched on the importance of personalising your cover letter, but it’s not just in the published authors you mention.

You should write about the agent and any relevant details about why you’ve chosen them. Most agents receive hundreds of query letters a week, so if you want them to give you their time and attention, show that you’ve given them yours.

Of course, you don’t want to give the impression you know every detail of their life. Not only could that be creepy, but you’re adhering to a tight word limit – don’t let yourself go over one page!

You can – and should – use a couple of your precious sentences to show you know their professional background. While researching individual agents might seem time-consuming – especially on top of all the work you’ve already done – it’s vital.

And it’s not just manners; it’s important for your long-term success, well after you sign with a literary agency. After all, this is ultimately a business deal and a professional partnership. You need to be sure that it’s the right fit for you and your novel.

So use agents’ online presence on their agency website or professional profile to see the kinds of authors they work with, and the ones they admire. If they align with your style – great! You can feel good about submitting to them, with the promise of a fruitful partnership on the horizon.

5. Writing about yourself in your query letter

Finally, we come to the topic many novelists least like to write about: themselves.

You’re in luck, because most agents want this section to be very brief. Remember, the focus is on your fiction and its viability. Your life story isn’t relevant. While your passion and commitment to writing are indispensable, the fact you’re trying to publish a novel you’ve written speaks for itself. Don’t wax too lyrical.

In fact, there’s pretty much only one concrete thing that every agent wants to know about you, and that’s whether you have any publishing history.

Don’t panic if this is your first book! Unless it says otherwise in their submission guidelines, the vast majority of agents are open to debut authors (and many are actively looking for them).

If you haven’t yet published any books but would like to include something about your writing experience, you can mention other publications or practice you’ve had. It could include:

• Experience in a professional realm (maybe you’ve worked as a journalist or a copywriter)
• Online creative writing courses you’ve taken (especially if you’ve done any with The Novelry, which literary agencies love!)
• Short fiction you’ve published
• Writing awards you’ve won

Some people include a brief line about their day job or other details of their life – particularly if it’s relevant to the genesis of their fiction. For example, Harriet Tyce was a criminal barrister, and wrote two novels centred around criminal barristers. It was clear where she found story ideas for her thrillers – or at least their protagonists.

This type of connection can give agents confidence in the accuracy of your writing, suggesting your editor will have a lighter workload when it comes to factual discrepancies. Plus, it can be helpful when it comes to marketing (if you’re happy to divulge your background).

If your job is uninteresting, unrelated or you’re trying to keep it under a page, feel free to omit details beyond your fiction writing. Agents are more interested in you as a writer than as a person.

And that’s pretty much it! All that’s left to do is to thank the agent for their time and consideration, and sign off. Done and dusted.

What happens next?

So what happens next? Agents will usually give an expected window for responses on their website, and this can be anywhere from a few days up to six weeks, or even longer. It’s important that you respect this timeframe! Follow their guidelines about when and how to check on the status of your submission.

Similarly, if an agent passes on your submission, please do not badger them for an explanation or ask them to reconsider. Agents can only take on authors and stories that they genuinely feel they can champion, and they know their own tastes – be gracious about rejection and try not to take it personally. Remember, publishing is a small business and agents have long memories!

And the fact is, dealing with criticism and rejection is part and parcel of a writer’s life; that’s why it’s so important for us to develop resilience .

Tips from The Novelry’s partner literary agencies

At The Novelry, we’re fortunate enough to partner with some of the world’s leading literary agencies.

They’ve kindly written articles for us in which they share their experiences and advice on querying agents, as well as on a whole range of other fascinating topics which you can read on our blog.

Here are some of the gems they’ve shared:

• Keep the body of the email as short as possible; send materials as attachments, unless otherwise directed.
• Include your attachments (i.e. the sample chapters, synopsis/outline and anything else that’s requested) as a Word document if possible. Most e-readers don’t deal well with PDFs.
• Proofread very carefully; a single mistake could make an agent give up on your submission.
• Be respectful and humble.
• Address agents by name. Some may prefer a title and last name, others are happy to be addressed by their first name. If in doubt, go for the more formal option. But never address them as ‘Sir/Madam’ or anything similarly anonymous. Triple check you have spelt their name correctly!
• Always send exactly what they ask for on the website. If they request the first three chapters, send them. If they only ask for ten pages, send that. Some might not want any sample material in the first instance, so don’t send any! You need to make it clear that you’ll be able to follow directions from your agent, your editor and your publisher down the line.
• Tell agents who you hope your audience will be. Think of the common marketing technique across media, ‘ for fans of ’ or ‘ if you liked X you’ll love this ’. Imagine your book on an online retailer – what titles would it appear with under ‘Customers who bought this also bought…’ or similar features?
• If you’ve been rejected by an agent who’s offered some reason for their rejection, don’t resubmit your edited manuscript requesting new comments. They aren’t your editor. If they want to see a revised version, they’ll tell you.
• Don’t pester agents for a response. If they’re going to reply, they will when they have time. Hopefully their auto-response or guidelines will let you know what to expect (i.e. whether they respond to unsuccessful submissions, and what the window usually is for responses).
• Use a professional-sounding email address. Not the silly address you created in high school, and no joint accounts with your partner. Remember, agents are considering not only whether they can publish your book, but whether to sign a professional contract with you. Act accordingly!

Sample cover letter

Finally, you might want to look at examples of successful pitch letters for books.

We look at sample cover letters in depth in our courses, analysing what works well and why.  

In the meantime, you can also look at other cover letters online. For example, author and editor Phoebe Morgan shared her sample cover letter here , and agent Juliet Mushens has published one here .

Of course, making it all the way through to bagging your dream literary agent and getting a publishing contract means your manuscript will need to live up to the promise of your perfect pitch letter. The best way to make sure it does is to join us for The Finished Novel Course . We’ll get your novel ready for publication and connect you with your perfect partner agent who knows the publishers that will love your story. Sign up and start today to become one of our sparkling success stories!

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Convincing Cover Letter for Publishing Industry: Sample + Tips

Are you that person whose nose is always deep into some new title? Do most types of printed periodicals appear oddly fascinating to you? Well, then you are probably well-suited for a career in the publishing industry. 

Despite our collective obsession with digital — and the ubiquity of bite-sized blog posts — a real book still remains an in-demand product too. Last year, the US book industry generated over $26.5 billion in revenue with print book figures improving. And that means that many publishers are once again on a hiring spree.

To land a job with some cool publisher, you gotta have a polished resume. But more importantly, you need to submit a compelling cover letter too. After all, it’s your best way to show your word mastery. 

But even experienced editors often struggle to come up with the right words to frame their achievements. So we’ve created this sample cover letter for publishing jobs as a writing prompt for you. Scroll to the bottom for some extra tips too! 

Publishing Jobs Cover Letter Sample (Word version)

Here’s a sample cover letter for an experienced romance novels editor, looking to work with a national publisher. 

Download cover letter example (.docx)

Cover Letter Example for Publishing Industry (text version)

Dear Mariam Smith,

Do you know how I recognize a potential best-seller? If the first ten pages leave me thoroughly hooked, it’s a strong contender.  My cover letter for an open position of Romance Novel Editor with Clarks and Spencer Publishing isn’t a real pageturner, but it hopefully will provide an interesting narrative into my professional experience and abilities that can be of use to your company.

My journey towards the publishing industry began when I was 6. That’s when I wrote a short love story about a princess and an ice cream delivery man (non-trivial theme, I know). Then I tried to persuade my parents to let me print several copies to give away to my friends. But my mom said that book publishing isn’t free, so I do need to finish several chores first if I want my novel to see the light of day. Since then, I’ve learned a lot more about the publishing industry during my 5 years as an Associate Essay Editor with Angies’ Publishing House and as Romance Features Editor at Wedding Magazine. 

Additionally, I provide manuscript editing services as a freelancer to self-published romance authors, specializing in period dramas — a genre where Clarks and Spencer Publishing certainly excels. Joanne Monroe and Andy McKinzey are two of my long-term favorite authors, whose your house published. 

Apart from having strong copyediting skills, I’m also experienced with the operational side of the business. I can provide creative direction and vision for book illustrations, liaise with authors and agents, and otherwise facilitate the titles acquisition process. 

For previous samples of my work and references, please check my personal website kaylaeditorialservices.com. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact me. 

Kayla Devis 

How To Write A Cover Letter for Publishing Industry Jobs

Since you are in the business of words, your cover letter should be coherent, well-narrated, and a bit artistically articulate. After all, you’d like to advertise your personal writing skills too and there’s no better way to do that than in a cover letter.

Still, your cover letter should respect the “unspoken” code — provide background into your work experience, core competencies, and motivation for joining this particular company. To communicate all of the above within one page, follow these actionable tips. 

1. Explain Your “Why”

Why are you so interested in the publishing industry? Why do you want to work for our company? These are the questions nearly every employer in the industry asks. And they want to see answers to them in your cover letter. 

As Carolyn Zimatore, Director, Talent Management at HarperCollins Publishers puts it : 

“I am not sure which is worse: a generic cover letter that says “I would like the open position at your company” without any mention of what the company is or what the job is or why you want the job, or no cover letter at all.”

So before you put any words down, take a five and research the company . Look into the type of genres they are mostly publishing. Check recent authors. Bring up industry awards. There are a lot of small nuggets you can dig up to make your letter sound as if you intimately know their business. 

2. Use Some Storytelling 

Most people join the publishing industry because they are obsessed with great stories. Show your appreciation of a good narrative by weaving in a quick personal story into your letter like the applicant does in the letter above. Just remember to err on the side of brevity. A cover letter isn’t a novel. So keep your story short and sweet as the author does in the sample above. 

3. Advertise Some Extra Skills 

If you want to work in the publishing industry, you need to have exceptional writing and editorial skills. But that’s what every other job applicant will highlight too. So instead of focusing on just that, bring up some of the “extras” you have. Are you an amazing negotiator and can get the needle moving with agents? Are you a maven when it comes to writing jacket copy and sales notes? Do you also happen to be obsessed with numbers and can do baseline sales projections, price research, and other analytical tasks? Bring all of these complementary skills in your cover letter!

Here are several other in-demand skills for editorial jobs in the publishing industry:

• Publishing process coordination 
• Author relationship management 
• Typography and illustration 
• Market research 
• Deal management 
• Payment records management 
• P&L management 
• Backlist project coordination 

Final Thoughts

Landing a job in the publishing industry is a dream for many bookworms. But don’t let this be just a dream — take proactive steps to get your foot in the door. Sure, such jobs are competitive, but with a little bit of persistence and the right attitude, you’d be able to break into it!

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

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How to Write a Submission Cover Letter That Will Wow Literary Agents

As a writer, you spend countless hours perfecting your manuscript, pouring your heart and soul into every word. But did you know that the cover letter you include with your manuscript submission is just as …

Written by: Adam

Published on: November 20, 2023

The purpose of a submission cover letter is to introduce yourself and your work to literary agents. It gives you the opportunity to make a strong first impression and convince the agent that your manuscript is worth their time and consideration. While the content of your manuscript is undoubtedly important, a well-written cover letter can help it stand out from the slush pile and increase your chances of getting noticed.

Understanding the purpose of a cover letter for manuscript submission

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of writing a cover letter for manuscript submission, it’s crucial to understand its purpose. A cover letter serves as a professional introduction to your work and provides a glimpse into your writing style and personality. It should be concise, engaging, and tailored specifically to the agent or agency you’re submitting to.

When a literary agent receives a submission, they often have limited time to review each one. A well-crafted cover letter can pique their interest and make them eager to delve into your manuscript. Think of it as a teaser, enticing them to read further. It’s your chance to showcase your writing skills and convince the agent that you’re not only a talented writer but also a professional who understands the industry.

Essential elements of a cover letter for manuscript submission

Now that you understand the purpose of a cover letter, let’s explore the essential elements that should be included. First and foremost, your cover letter should be professional in tone and format. Use a standard business letter format with your contact information at the top, followed by the agent’s details and the date. Address the agent by name if possible, as it shows you’ve done your research and personalized the letter.

Next, introduce yourself and mention the title of your manuscript. Briefly explain why you chose to submit to that particular agent or agency. This demonstrates that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in working with them. Highlight any relevant writing credentials or experience you have that make you uniquely qualified to write the manuscript. Keep this section concise and focus on the most impressive aspects of your background.

Finally, provide a brief summary or pitch of your manuscript. This should be a compelling and concise overview that captures the essence of your story and leaves the agent wanting to know more. Avoid giving away too much detail or spoiling the plot. Instead, focus on intriguing the agent and creating a sense of curiosity. Think of this section as a movie trailer – it should leave the agent eager to dive into your manuscript and discover the full story.

Tips for writing an attention-grabbing opening paragraph

The opening paragraph of your cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression and grab the agent’s attention. Start with a compelling hook that will immediately engage the agent and makes them curious about your manuscript. It might be an intriguing question, a shocking statistic or a captivating anecdote. The key is to make the agent want to keep reading.

After the hook, briefly introduce yourself and your manuscript. Mention any relevant writing credentials or experience that make you stand out. Highlight why you chose to submit to that particular agent or agency. Show them that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in working with them. This personal touch can make a significant impact and show the agent that you’ve put thought into your submission.

Remember to keep the opening paragraph concise and to the point. Agents receive numerous submissions every day, so they appreciate brevity. Avoid rambling or providing unnecessary information. Instead, focus on crafting a strong and attention-grabbing opening that leaves the agent eager to read more.

How to showcase your writing credentials and experience

When it comes to writing a cover letter for manuscript submission, showcasing your writing credentials and experience is essential. This section allows you to demonstrate your expertise and convince the agent that you’re a talented writer who is worth their consideration. Here are a few tips to help you effectively showcase your credentials:

Highlight any relevant writing achievements: Focus on the writing credentials that are most relevant to your manuscript and the genre you’re targeting. This could include published (or self-published) works, writing awards, or any other accomplishments that demonstrate your skill and experience (such as building an audience on social media).

Provide details but be concise: While it’s important to provide some context and details about your writing credentials, remember to keep it concise. Agents have limited time, so make sure to highlight the most impressive aspects without overwhelming them with unnecessary information.

Tailor your credentials to the agent or agency: Research the agent or agency you’re submitting to and tailor your writing credentials accordingly. If they have a particular interest or speciality, highlight any relevant experience you have in that area. This shows the agent that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in working with them.

By effectively showcasing your writing credentials and experience, you can establish yourself as a credible and talented writer. This increases the agent’s confidence in your abilities and makes them more likely to consider your manuscript.

Crafting a compelling summary of your manuscript

Perhaps the most crucial part of your cover letter for manuscript submission is the summary of your manuscript itself. This section is your chance to give the agent a taste of what your story is about and entice them to read further. Here are a few tips to help you craft a compelling summary:

Keep it concise: Your summary should be brief, typically no more than a few paragraphs. Focus on the main plot points and the core themes of your story. Avoid getting bogged down in unnecessary details or subplots.

Capture the essence of your story: Your summary should give the agent a clear idea of what your story is about and what makes it unique. Highlight the main conflict, the protagonist’s journey, and any intriguing elements that set your manuscript apart.

Create a sense of curiosity: The goal of your summary is to leave the agent wanting to know more. Don’t give away all the details or spoil the ending. Instead, create a sense of curiosity that compels the agent to dive into your manuscript and discover the full story.

Crafting a compelling summary takes time and careful consideration. It’s often helpful to draft multiple versions and seek feedback from trusted peers or writing groups. Remember, your summary is your manuscript’s first impression, so make it count.

Do’s and don’ts of writing a cover letter for manuscript submission

To wrap up our guide on writing a submission cover letter, let’s go over some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

• Address the agent by name if possible.
• Tailor your cover letter to the agent or agency you’re submitting to.
• Highlight your most relevant writing credentials and experience.
• Keep your cover letter concise and to the point.
• Proofread your cover letter for any grammatical or spelling errors.

Don’t:

• Ramble or provide unnecessary information.
• Oversell or exaggerate your writing credentials.
• Give away too much detail or spoil the plot in your manuscript summary.
• Forget to personalise your cover letter for each submission.
• Forget to follow the submission guidelines provided by the agent or agency.

By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that your cover letter is professional, engaging, and tailored to the agent you’re submitting to. Remember, the goal is to get a foot in the door, make a good first impression and convince the agent that your manuscript is worth their time and consideration.

The Ultimate Guide to Novel Length: How Many Words Should Your Book Be?

Creating memorable characters through dialogue: a guide to writing effective conversations in your novel.

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How to write a cover letter.

A cover letter introduces you to an employer and asks them to think about your application. 

It’s a short letter, usually 3 to 5 paragraphs long.

When to include a cover letter

You should always include a cover letter when you apply for a job using a CV. 

You can write it as an email if you’re applying online or print a copy to go with a paper application.

When writing a cover letter, let the employer know you’re keen by showing that you’ve researched the company. Learn more about what they do through:

• their website
• recent news articles
• talking to people you know who work there

Send it to the right person

It's important to try to address your cover letter to someone by name. Check you have the details of the person you need to send it to. 

You'll need their name and preferred title. For example, ‘Dr’, ‘Mr’, ‘Mrs’, ‘Ms’, and their job title. You should also make sure you have the right company name and address, including postcode.

If you do not know their name

If the job advert does not include a name you can check the company website. Try to find details of the head of the department, head of human resources or a recruitment manager.

If you still cannot find a name, you can start your letter with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’.

Introduction

Introduce yourself and explain how you found the advertised job. You can mention the job title, and reference number if there is one. 

If you’re asking about any job openings and not applying to a vacancy, tell them what sort of job you’re looking for. Let the employer see how keen you are to work for them.

Show you're right for the job

Highlight the skills and experience you have that match what the employer is looking for. 

Convince them that you're enthusiastic about working for them. Let them know you share their work values, culture and style.

Give extra information

If you have gaps in your employment history, you could talk about the skills you gained while you were out of work.

If you’ve mentioned on your CV that you have a disability, you might want to talk more about this in your cover letter. Organisations like Disability UK can give you advice on how to do this. You do not have to mention your disability at this stage if you prefer not to.

You can get more help with specialist advice on finding work if you have a disability.

Ending your cover letter

Thank the employer for considering your application. Let them know that they can get more details from your CV, and tell them you're looking forward to hearing from them.

Let them know how they can best contact you. Make sure your contact details are correct on both your cover letter and CV.

Yours sincerely or yours faithfully

If you know the name of the person you’re writing to, you should end the letter with ‘Yours sincerely’.

If you’ve addressed the letter ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, you should end the letter with ‘Yours faithfully’.

Tips for writing a cover letter

When writing your cover letter, remember to:

• write a new one for every job you apply for and make sure it’s tailored to the company and the specific role
• use the same font and size as you do for your CV, so it looks consistent
• make sure the company name and recruiter’s details are correct
• use the right language and tone: keep it professional and match the keywords used by the employer in their job advert
• show you’ve done your research into the job and the company
• highlight your most relevant skills and experience to stand out from other applicants
• back up any statements you make with facts and use the STAR method
• double check spelling and grammar before you send it
• keep a copy of your cover letter as they may ask you about it in an interview

Related content

How to write a CV

Completing application forms

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Write a Good Cover Letter with This Step-By-Step Guide

First impressions count big time whether you’re submitting a book manuscript, introducing a product, or applying for a job.

Kathy Widenhouse

The Book Mechanic

“I only need to know how to write a cover letter when I’m job hunting.” That’s a common misconception. Plenty of other cover letter scenarios abound. You write a cover letter when you submit a writing book sample to an agent or publishing house. You also write cover letters that introduce an offer, accompany a grant proposal, or ask for a donation.

A cover letter is a sales document. Its sole purpose is to introduce the rest of the submission content. If the cover letter does its job, it entices the reader to want to find out more.

Although writing a cover letter is simple, you have to resist the temptation to be careless or even sloppy with it. It is a writing project in which first impressions count … big time. This simple writing guide walks you through the six sections of a cover letter and how to write each one so your reader is impressed by your professionalism and intrigued to learn more.

• Insert your contact information at the top of the page, including phone number and email address.

Written by Kathy Widenhouse

Award-winning writer Kathy Widenhouse has written 9 books and garnered 600K+ views for her writing tutorials, which you can get at www.nonprofitcopywriter.com .

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Publisher Cover Letter Example (Free Guide)

Create an publisher cover letter that lands you the interview with our free examples and writing tips. use and customize our template and land an interview today..

Are you in the market for a new career opportunity? Are you wanting to make a move from your current job? If so, you're likely in need of a great cover letter. Our Publisher Cover Letter Guide is here to help! Our guide provides you with the necessary information to create a compelling cover letter that will catch the eye of potential employers. Read on to learn more!

We will cover:

• How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
• What a cover letter template is, and why you should use it.

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• Dancer Cover Letter Sample

Dear Publisher,

I am writing to apply for the position of Publisher with your company. With my extensive background in the publishing industry, I am confident that I have the skills and experience to make an immediate and positive contribution to your team.

I have a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of Chicago and have been working in the publishing industry for over 10 years. During this time, I have held a variety of roles, including book editor, copywriter, and publishing project manager. I have a deep understanding of the publishing process, from concept development and editing to production and marketing. I am also highly experienced in copywriting and have a strong eye for detail.

I am adept at collaborating with authors and managing editorial teams to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. I have a proven ability to spot potential areas of improvement, while also remaining organized and focused on the objectives of the project. I am also highly knowledgeable of the latest technologies and trends in the publishing industry.

I am confident that my skills and experience make me an ideal candidate for the position. I am passionate about the publishing industry and would be excited to join your team. I look forward to discussing this opportunity with you further.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Why Do you Need a Publisher Cover Letter?

• A Publisher cover letter is essential in helping you stand out amongst the competition when applying for a publishing job.
• Having a well written and comprehensive cover letter can give you the edge over other applicants and allow you to show the hiring manager why you are the perfect candidate for the job.
• A Publisher cover letter allows you to showcase your writing and communication skills, which are often the most important qualities a publisher looks for in a potential employee.
• It also allows you to highlight any experience you have in the publishing industry, which can help demonstrate your knowledge and expertise.
• Finally, a Publisher cover letter can help you explain why you are the ideal candidate for the job and what makes you stand out from the competition.

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

• Start your cover letter with an introduction that includes your name and your contact information.
• Address the letter to a specific contact person, if possible. If you are unable to locate a contact person, you may address the letter to the “editorial staff” or “hiring manager.”
• Outline your qualifications and experience that make you a good fit for the job.
• Explain why you are interested in the publishing house or the specific job.
• Include a copy of your resume or other relevant documents.
• Close your letter with a polite and professional tone.
• Proofread and edit your letter to ensure that it is free of any errors.
• Send your letter via email or postal mail, depending on the instructions provided by the publisher.

What's The Best Structure For Publisher Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive Publisher resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a Publisher cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For Publisher Cover Letters:

• Your contact information, including the date of writing
• The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
• A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
• An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
• A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
• Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
• A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
• A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
• An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

• Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
• Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
• Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

• Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
• Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
• Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
• Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
• Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

When writing a publisher cover letter, it is important to be clear and concise. The following components should be included:

• Introduction: An introduction should be used to introduce yourself, explain why you are writing, and briefly mention your relevant skills and experience. It should be both engaging and concise.
• Background: The background section of the cover letter should provide the reader with a clearer understanding of your experience and qualifications. This section should include relevant information about your education, work history, and any special skills or qualifications that you possess.
• Relevant Experience: This section should highlight any experience that is directly related to the publishing industry. It is important to explain how your skills and experience make you well-suited for the position.
• Motivation: In this section, you should explain why you are interested in a career in publishing. Make sure to explain what it is about publishing that interests you and why you believe you would be a good fit for the position.
• Conclusion: The conclusion should be used to thank the reader for their time and reiterate your interest in the position. You should also include your contact information so that the reader is able to reach out to you.

Writing a publisher cover letter can be a daunting task, but following these simple guidelines can help you create a professional and effective letter. By highlighting your relevant skills and experience, you can show the reader that you are the ideal candidate for the position.

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

• Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
• Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
• Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
• Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
• Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
• Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Publisher Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

• Not researching the company or publication
• Not addressing the letter to a specific editor or publisher
• Not providing a clear understanding of your work
• Not providing samples of your work
• Not proofreading the letter for typos or errors
• Not being professional and courteous
• Not following the guidelines set by the publisher
• Not including contact information
• Not providing a call to action or asking for a response

Key Takeaways For a Publisher Cover Letter

• Highlight your experience in publishing, writing, editing, and marketing.
• Show that you understand the publisher's goals and how you can help them achieve them.
• Demonstrate your technical skills, such as knowledge of publishing software.
• Provide examples of your past successes in the publishing field.
• Discuss your attention to detail, organization, and communication skills.
• Show enthusiasm and a passion for the publishing field.

How to Write a Covering Submission Letter

Vanessa Fox O'Loughlin

• 3 February 2011

What is the first thing an agent or publisher sees when they open your submission email?

Your covering letter…

This is your first point of contact with someone who, potentially, has your future in their hand, so make the right impression the first time.

The whole industry works on email so ensure your own email address is sensible and easy to find – ideally with your name in it, and check it regularly. If you plan to or are considering using a pen name, save that for a conversation with the agent when they take you on. Submitting under a pen name can be confusing for everyone and you need to speak to your agent to discuss why/what that name will be – it’s often a marketing tool and needs to be thought through.

Your covering email should be:

• Beautifully presented, spell checked and coherent – think of your letter as a job application. Don’t spend months on your book and five minutes on your cover letter, take time to get it right! Show you can write – no typos, tangled sentences or waffle. Or they may never get past the covering letter.
• PERSONALLY address your email to the right person – use the agent or publisher’s name (NOT Dear Mr. Penguin/Dear Mrs. Curtis Brown) Google them to get the spelling right. Find out if the agent or editor you are approaching is a Mr. or a Ms.· Make sure this is the right person within the organization to handle your genre – and make sure they are currently open to submissions! Mistakes here show you haven’t done your research, which in turn throws a question over how serious you are about getting into the publishing business – why should an editor spend time reading your submission if you haven’t spent time finding out how they spell their surname or you are ignoring their guidelines?
• When you are emailing, NEVER blanket cc OR bcc agents. Noone wants to feel part of a herd – show why you want to approach this person with your (precious) work, show you know who they represent and that you know who they are. If you saw them speak on a panel, mention that.
• Ensure you include your  book’s title ,  genre  and  word count . The word count will immediately tell an editor whether your book is of a commercial length and whether you understand your genre.
• Be SUCCINCT – a maximum of one page. If you have significant writing accolades or are a TV star, include this information in a separate author profile.
• Try and summarise your book in a pitch paragraph – and open your letter with it. You will need to practice this to get it right but these will be lines you will use continuously. When you find yourself standing next to a legendary agent at a book launch, stun them with your brilliant pitch and they’ll remember you when you send in your manuscript!
• For a fiction submission, ensure the letter is more about the book than you. Your Himilayan adventures can go into the author profile if you need to add one. For non-fiction, platform and qualifications are very important (if your book is about surviving in the Himalayas, your adventures are relevant and important). If you are submitting non-fiction ensure that you make it clear why YOU are the best person to write this book – what are your qualifications/experience?
• Show the agent who you are and what else you are doing/have done so they can get a feel for who they may be working with. If you’ve won writing competitions or have a huge network, let them know.
• DO NOT say that you are the next JK Rowling or Dan Brown, but do say that you hope to emulate/write in the style of, for instance, Maeve Binchy or Rosamund Pilcher. This can give the agent/publisher an idea where you see your book falling in the market. Comparative titles are very useful for anyone reading to get a sense of where you see your book (use titles people have heard of!)
• Do NOT say your mum loved it. DO say if you’ve worked with a professional editor or author on it. The publishing industry is small, if the person you have worked with is well known or respected, mention their name.
• Only pitch one book. Your book might be part of a trilogy, but that’s not the most important thing about it – if you can’t sell one book, you won’t be able to sell the other two. Mention in the closing line that you see this book as part of a series if it’s important.
• Clearly include ALL your contact information – email AND telephone. Include this information in the header or footer of your manuscript too, just in case the covering letter becomes detached from your submission as it hits the agent’s Kindle, or is passed eagerly around an editorial office. This has happened. Take note!
• FOLLOW THE SUBMISSION GUIDELINES. It’s not difficult. Agents get so many submissions if you can’t follow the guidelines it’s a sign you could be hard to work with – they are more likely to hit delete than read your work. Don’t include the whole book when they’ve asked for three pages – if they like your book they’ll ask for more. If they only ask for three chapters and you feel that your book starts taking off at chapter five, don’t send the five chapters – rewrite them so they are fabulous from chapter one!
• Don’t send your book anywhere until it’s finished and has been extensively re-drafted, it needs to be as perfect as you can make it before submission. It’s not an agent’s job to find your grain of genius in a first draft. My books have four to six drafts before I send them to my agent – I would never send a first draft to anyone!

Best of Luck!

(C) Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin

About the author

©Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin for writing.ie

Vanessa Fox O’Louglin is the founder of writing.ie and runs  The Inkwell Group . She is a scout for several leading literary agencies in UK and Ireland and writes crime as bestseller Sam Blake – find out more at http://www.samblakebooks.com

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What makes a covering letter stand out?

Posted 03.02.14 by prhcareers

Following on from last month’s blog post on CV writing tips, we’re now going to give a bit of limelight to the covering letter.

Your covering letter is just as important as your CV when you are submitting a job application. Particularly for entry level roles, CVs can look quite similar in terms of academic achievements and level of experience, so the letter is a really great opportunity to make your application shine.

There is no specific formula to writing a great covering letter, but here are some things you may want to consider when you are putting together your application:

Do your research – Whether you are applying for a marketing role at Transworld or an editorial position at Michael Joseph, the person reading your letter will want to see that you know the list. Look at our online catalogues, trawl online retailers or spend some time in a bookshop. Show us that you know who our authors are and what our successes have been.

Be passionate – We are a company that is very passionate about what it does, and we want to hire people who will be able to inject a similar enthusiasm into what they’re doing. Tell us what and who you love to read and what makes you excited about the prospect of a career in publishing!

Be interested in the role – if you are applying for a marketing role (for example), tell us why you want to do that job. You could even take it a step further and talk about a campaign you’ve noticed and what worked well about it as well as briefly alluding to anything you’ve done in this area.

Be commercial – Ultimately, publishing is a business, and what we do has to make money. Showing us that you have taken an interest in the key trends in the industry, knowing who our key retailers are, as well as thinking about the challenges and opportunities the industry is facing (particularly around digital) will go a long way.

Don’t just repeat your CV – You may want to include a short paragraph summarising why you are particularly well-suited to a role, but the person reading your letter will already have read your CV so will already have a good sense of your skills and experience. Use your covering letter to say something interesting and thought-provoking.

Be succinct – A page of text will be plenty – we will sometimes have hundreds of letters to read through, so don’t waffle and make it about quality over quantity!

Proofread it – don’t let a typo let you down: it could mean the difference between the ‘yes’ and the ‘no’ pile.

Tough interview questions: a guide to tackling them

My learning

Microsoft Word | Create a cover letter

Learn how to create a cover letter to assist your search for a new job..

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