Once your project is finished, you’re ready to draft a query letter — a succinct account of your writing that is so captivating any agent or manager is sure to request it. So what makes this gem of a letter so difficult to whip out? Probably because you only have one page (or even less!) to get their attention. Here’s some tips for how to pull that off.
#1 – Consider starting off with your script or novel’s logline. This lets the reader know immediately what your project is about.
#2 – Describe the protagonist right off the bat. We don’t mean what they look like, but rather, what obstacles they face.
#3 – Expand the above by giving brief details about the journey your protagonist will take in order to achieve his/her goals.
#4 – Let the reader know genre and audience you have written for as well as what your work is similar to in tone.
#5 – If you have a professional background or personal activity that gives you insight into your subject matter, let them know. This is also the place to blow your own horn about where you studied writing and any awards you may have earned.
#6 – Finally, don’t forget to thank your reader for their time and give them the best email and number to reach you if they’re interested in reading more. Don’t tell your reader that they’re missing a great opportunity if they don’t request your work. The truth is, matching your work with an agent/manager is a bit like dating. You have to find the right match.
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