I Got Google Babe
by on February 26th, 2010
filed under On Writing
Adventures in Query Land continue…
It’s a numbers game.
Writers hear that all the time when it comes to querying. Yet I’ve read agent’s blogs and interviews where they talk about being offended when a writer pulls their name off a list & blindly queries them.
I can see their point.
Everyone wants to feel special like they’ve been chosen. I get that. But the fact is, I have met in person only a handful of agents (and even less editors-ya’ll are slippery eels), so if I can’t query you based on a happenstance meeting, how else am I to query you?
I’ll tell you how.
The list of acquiring agents my writer’s group lists (in my case Romance Writers of America). Absolute Write’s Water Cooler. Predators & Editors. AgentQuery.com. I could go on & on….
But. My most important tool in vetting out an agent is Google. Crimenelli but you can find out anything about anyone on Google! There’s no hiding from Google. So let me tell you my wonderful, intelligent, chosen, potential agent… I Googled you (oh yes it’s a verb now!) and I’ve read every blog you’ve guest blogged on, every interview you sat through, every mention of your name, agency name & client names, I follow you on Twitter, Facebook & Myspace. I know what you had for lunch, what your favorite ice cream flavor is (or if you’re lactose intolerant), I even know what color underwear you put on this morning (okay, maybe not that).
In other words, I spent a good deal of time choosing you to query. So when you get my letter or email know that I chose you. I chose you because I thought we would work well together, you would appreciate my work and you could be the one to guide my career to soaring heights of Best Seller-dome.
Feel special.
Stay tuned for more adventures in Query Land.
Queries sent-60
Requests for a partial-2
Requests for a full-1
No’s-19
Beth, the way you are going about finding an agent is smart. I am impressed. Because one agent requested a full, and two requested partials, I have a good feeling you will land an agent who will handle your book! I pray this happens very soon.
Hugs, Kathleen
I applaud you, girl.
Did you send the queries all at once?
This spring I vowed to do this for two different books. For one, I did about 25, the other 45 – based upon a period where I sent three a day. Lots of thanks, but no thanks – then got pregnant and had a baby (I know, excuses).
But you’re doing the right thing by moving forward full steam. I only wish you the best of luck – because we already know you have the talent.
Thanks Kathleen! I’m praying & crossing everything I’ve got too.
Aww Sylvie how sweet of you.
Congratulations on the baby! Boy or Girl? You have been a busy lady since I saw you last. Are you going to National this year? I’ll be there.
I sent my queries in waves. Some responded right away & some haven’t responded at all yet. Got a really nice rejection letter with some great comments and she left the door open for me to make changes & resubmit to her. Now it’s all about what changes to make & how to make them.
You should try again, the market seems to be changing. You might get a different response this time. Recheck your info first. There’s been some shifting & moving around of agents since the last time I queried. So make sure you have the latest info. Many agencies now have websites that feature agents & what they are looking for (which is incredibly helpful). Good luck and congrates again on your new little one!
It’s a boy, born 2/1/2010. I have been busy. In a month or so – when I’m more awake during the day – I’ll definitely start submitting again. Plus I need to finish that 4th manuscript that I’m about halfway through.
Missed nationals last year – went on family vacation instead (morning sickness pushed that back). This year, hmmm, we’ll see. It’ll depend on the new LO!
Now, off for a nap or a feeding. It could go either way . . . .