How to Write a Query Letter for Writing Jobs

Video Transcript

REBECCA SATO: Hi. I'm Rebecca Sato with ExpertVillage.com. And we were just talking about ghostwriting, where you write a book for someone else but you won't necessarily get the credit for it, because you're getting paid to give the credit to someone else. So now, let's talk about writing where you do put your name on it. You're building your portfolio and you're getting paid and you're advancing your career at this point. So how do you submit a query letter? A query letter is basically using the letter to someone in position to publish your writing, and you're trying to convince them that what you want to write about is a good idea and that you do a good job writing about it. So I'm just going to read you a sample query letter. So you'd start up here. Basically like any business letter, you're going to format it. You're going to put their name, address. Some people say you don't even have to format it like a regular letter, because they're busy and they're just going to be quick. Quick and simple is usually better. But more often than not, people still would like to be courteous and formal. So I would say stick with that. Here we go. Dear Mr. Jones. Ten tips for growing beautiful orchids effortlessly. Orchids are beautiful, exotic flowers that are much easier to care for than most women realize. I propose to give your readers ten tips that will clearly show them exactly how to care for these enchanting plants. The completed article will be about 1,000 words and can be delivered to you in hard copy and/or via e-mail within one week of your acceptance. I've been a successful freelance writer for more than two years, and I'm the enthusiastic owner of over 15 orchids of several different species. My writing credits can be found at RebeccaSato.com, or wherever they can find some samples of your writing. I've enclosed a self-addressed stamped envelope or you may respond via e-mail at, whatever your e-mail address happens to be, sincerely, and, of course, your name and your contact information. The point of this letter is, of course, to tell them what your ideas and let them know you do a great job. So if you can do that, then you write a good query letter.

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