Short Story Submission: Author Cover Letter Tips

A submission package typically includes a cover letter, and this cover letter represents the author and the submission’s short story. The author can use a cover letter to highlight important details about the story, such as previous publications or relevant writing experience. The cover letter should be concise, professional, and tailored to impress an editor or agent which can increase the chance of getting published.

So, you’ve poured your heart and soul into crafting a short story. Congratulations! But now comes the next hurdle: the submission gauntlet. It’s that nail-biting, stomach-churning, hope-filled (and sometimes heartbreaking) process of sending your precious words out into the world of literary magazines and journals. Let’s be honest, it can feel a bit like tossing your story into a black hole and hoping for a shooting star in return.

Why does it feel this way? Well, competition is fierce. Editors are swamped with submissions. And, let’s face it, rejection can sting. But don’t despair, fellow writer! The truth is, you can dramatically increase your chances of success with a little preparation, a dash of research, and a whole lot of professionalism. Think of it as leveling up your writing game!

This blog post is your comprehensive guide to navigating that submission maze. We’re here to give you the tools, tips, and tricks you need to send your story soaring.

Our aim is simple: to provide you with a roadmap to successful submissions. We’ll walk you through everything from polishing your manuscript to crafting the perfect cover letter, from finding the right publication to understanding the editor’s perspective. Consider this guide your secret weapon in the battle for publication.

We get it. Submitting your work can be disheartening. It’s easy to feel like your voice is being drowned out. But remember, every published author has faced rejection. This guide is designed to tip the odds in your favor, helping you stand out from the crowd and land that coveted acceptance. Think of us as your friendly writing cheerleaders, here to encourage you every step of the way. Let’s transform this gauntlet into a victory march!

Part 1: Preparing Your Story for Its Debut

Okay, so you’ve got this story burning inside you, right? It’s practically screaming to be unleashed upon the literary world. Hold your horses! Before you even think about hitting that “submit” button, there’s some serious prep work to be done. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t send a kid to school in their pajamas, would you? (Okay, maybe on pajama day, but you get the idea!). This section is all about getting your story dressed to impress and ready to knock those editor’s socks off.

Polishing the Manuscript: Ensuring Your Story Shines

Imagine your story is a rough diamond. It has potential, sparkle, and maybe even a few hidden flaws. Multiple revisions are the key to cutting and polishing that diamond until it’s absolutely blinding.

• First, be your own worst critic. Read through your story with a fresh pair of eyes (easier said than done, I know, but try!). Look for plot holes that could swallow a small car, characters who act like they’re auditioning for a cardboard cutout convention, and pacing that’s either a drag race or a snail’s marathon. Be brutal. Cut what doesn’t serve the story. Add what’s missing.

• Next, find those pesky little gremlins. Did a character’s eye color change halfway through? Did you accidentally introduce a time-traveling toaster? Consistency is key. Make sure your world and your characters behave according to the rules you’ve set.

• Beta Readers to the Rescue! This is where fresh eyes are your best friend. Find a few trusted friends, writing buddies, or members of a writing group and beg them to read your story. But don’t just ask them if they liked it. Give them specific questions:

  • Does the plot make sense?
  • Are the characters believable and engaging?
  • Does the pacing keep you hooked?
  • Where did you get bored or confused?
  • What was the most memorable part?

  Tell them to be honest! Gentle, but honest. Their feedback is gold.

The Devil’s in the Details: Mastering the Art of Proofreading

So, you’ve revised, you’ve beta-read, and you think your story is finally ready. Almost! This is where we enter the realm of the dreaded proofread. Look, I know it’s boring. I know you’re sick of looking at your story. But trust me, a single typo can be the difference between acceptance and the dreaded rejection pile.

• The Checklist of Doom (aka Common Errors):

  • Grammar: Subject-verb agreement, incorrect tense, misplaced modifiers. You know, the usual suspects.
  • Spelling: Obvious typos, but also tricky words that spellcheck often misses (their/there/they’re, to/too/two).
  • Punctuation: Commas, semicolons, apostrophes – use them wisely!
  • Typos: Those sneaky little gremlins that appear even after you’ve read the story a million times.

• Tools of the Trade: Grammarly and ProWritingAid can be helpful for catching errors, but don’t rely on them completely! They’re good for catching the obvious stuff, but they can’t replace a human eye.

• Consistency is Key (Again!): Is it “e-mail” or “email”? “Nineteen-sixties” or “1960s”? Pick a style and stick to it throughout the entire story. Editors notice these things.

Remember, a polished manuscript shows respect for the editor’s time and demonstrates that you’re serious about your craft. Plus, it gives your amazing story the best possible chance to shine.

Part 2: Finding the Right Home – Researching Literary Magazines and Journals

Finding the perfect home for your short story is like finding the perfect apartment: it needs to be the right size, in the right neighborhood, and, most importantly, it needs to feel like it was meant for you. Don’t just toss your precious story into any old mailbox! You want a literary magazine or journal that gets your work, appreciates its unique quirks, and will give it the loving readership it deserves.

Genre Matching: Targeting Publications That Love Your Kind of Story

So, how do you find this dream home? First, let’s talk genre. If you’ve penned a heart-stopping science fiction thriller, sending it to a journal specializing in Victorian romance would be like wearing a tuxedo to a beach party – awkward for everyone involved.

Here’s your mission:

1. Know Thyself (and Thy Genre): Be crystal clear about your story’s genre (or genres!). Is it science fiction? Fantasy? Literary fiction? Horror? A quirky blend of several? Knowing your genre is the first, and arguably most important, step.

2. Online Sleuthing: Now, unleash your inner internet detective! Resources like Duotrope and the CLMP (Council of Literary Magazines and Presses) directory are your best friends. These online databases let you search for magazines based on genre, submission deadlines, and other vital criteria. Seriously, bookmark them now.

3. Heed the Warnings: Pay attention to what the magazines explicitly say they don’t want. If a journal declares, “No vampires, zombies, or talking cats!” and your story stars a zombie cat who’s running for mayor, move along.

Deep Dive: Understanding a Magazine’s Style and Preferences

Okay, you’ve narrowed down your options based on genre. But before you hit “submit,” it’s time for some serious reconnaissance. You wouldn’t move into a new city without checking it out first, would you?

Time to get your read on:

1. Read, Read, and Read Some More: This is non-negotiable. Devour recent issues of any magazine you’re considering. Most magazines have online archives, and some offer digital subscriptions. Treat it like research–because it is!

2. Story Analysis 101: As you read, ask yourself: What kinds of stories does this magazine seem to favor? Are they experimental and avant-garde, or more traditional in style? Are the stories long and sprawling, or short and punchy? Notice themes, writing styles, and general preferences.

3. Decoding the Mission: Hunt down the magazine’s editorial statement or mission statement. This is usually found on their website, under an “About Us” or “Mission” section. What are they trying to achieve? What kind of impact do they want to make? If their goals align with your story’s, you’re on the right track. If they mention wanting to publish new and unheard voices, that is a great sign!

Remember, a little research can save you a lot of heartbreak (and submission fees). You’re not just trying to get published; you’re trying to find a literary home for your story.

Part 3: Understanding the Gatekeepers – Editors and Submission Guidelines

Okay, so you’ve got your story buffed to a gleam, and you’ve scouted out the perfect literary neighborhood for it. Now it’s time to meet the neighborhood watch – the editors. These folks are the gatekeepers, the deciders, the ones who hold the keys to publication glory (or, you know, the rejection pile). Understanding their perspective and playing by their rules is crucial. Think of it as trying to get past a bouncer at a really cool club. You need to know the dress code, and you definitely don’t want to spill your drink on him.

The Editor’s Perspective: Seeing Through the Eyes of a Literary Gatekeeper

Let’s face it, editors aren’t just sitting around twirling their mustaches, cackling maniacally as they reject stories. They’re actually literary curators, passionate about finding and showcasing the best writing. They’re building a collection, a cohesive vision for their magazine. Your story needs to not only be good but also fit that vision.

Imagine being an editor. Mountains of submissions are landing on your desk (or, more likely, clogging your Submittable inbox). Each one is a potential gem, but you only have so much time and space. You’re looking for stories that grab you, that resonate, that feel fresh and exciting. You’re also looking for stories that are clean, well-written, and adhere to the basic rules of grammar and storytelling.

So, what can you do to make a strong first impression? First, show respect for their time and expertise. This means doing your homework, reading the magazine, and understanding what they publish. It also means presenting your work professionally and making it easy for them to say “yes.” And most importantly, it means not sending them hate mail after a rejection. We’ve all been there, but trust me, it doesn’t help.

Decoding the Rules: Adhering to Submission Guidelines

This is where things get really important. Editors have rules, oh yes they do. These aren’t arbitrary rules designed to torture writers (okay, maybe a little). They’re there to streamline the submission process and ensure that only serious contenders are considered. Think of it as the secret handshake to get into that aforementioned cool club. You gotta know it!

Where do you find these sacred guidelines? Usually, on the magazine’s website – look for a “Submissions” or “Guidelines” link. You can also find them on submission platforms like Submittable.

Now, let’s break down some of the common requirements:

• Formatting: Double-spaced, Times New Roman, 12-point font, standard margins. Sounds boring, but it’s essential.
• Word Count: Stick to the specified limit. A story that’s too long will be rejected outright.
• Bio Length: Keep it concise and relevant. Editors don’t need your life story, just a brief summary of your writing credentials.
• Cover Letter Content: Address the editor politely, mention the title and word count of your story, and briefly explain why you think it’s a good fit for the magazine.

Seriously, **follow *all guidelines exactly***. Don’t try to be clever or “unique.” If they ask for a specific format, give them that format. Non-compliance is a surefire way to get your story tossed into the rejection pile before it’s even read. Think of it as showing up to that cool club in sweatpants and a stained t-shirt. Not a good look! Remember, attention to detail speaks volumes.

Part 4: Crafting a Submission Package That Stands Out

So, you’ve got your story buffed and polished, you’ve found the perfect literary match, and you’ve decoded the editor’s cryptic instructions (a feat in itself!). Now comes the moment of truth: the submission package. Think of this as your story’s red-carpet moment. You want it to strut its stuff and make a lasting impression. This section will be your guide to crafting a cover letter, author bio, and ensuring your contact information shines brighter than a freshly printed acceptance letter.

The Art of the Cover Letter: Making a Memorable First Impression

Let’s be honest, cover letters can feel like a necessary evil. But they’re your chance to introduce yourself and your story in a way that piques the editor’s interest. Think of it as your story’s wingman, paving the way for a smooth introduction.

• Tone is key: Aim for a tone that’s professional, polite, and subtly enthusiastic. Imagine you’re chatting with a respected colleague who also happens to have the power to make your writing dreams come true.

• Essential Ingredients:

  • Story title: Seems obvious, but don’t forget it!
  • Word count: Editors need to know if they have time to read it or not.
  • Brief synopsis: A tantalizing glimpse into your story’s world, without giving away all the secrets.
  • Personal connection to the magazine: Show that you’ve done your homework and understand what they publish.

Effective Openings:

• “I’m submitting my short story, ‘[Story Title],’ to [Magazine Name] because I admire your commitment to publishing thought-provoking fiction, as evidenced in [mention a specific story or issue].”

Ineffective Openings:

• “Dear Editor, Here’s my story. I hope you like it.” (Too generic!)
• “I’m the best writer in the world, and you’d be crazy not to publish me.” (Yikes! Too arrogant!)

Your Literary Identity: Crafting a Strong Author Bio

Your author bio is more than just a list of accomplishments. It’s a chance to build credibility, show your personality, and connect with the editor on a human level.

• Purpose: To show you’re a serious writer. Let them know you’re not just some random person off the street who accidentally wrote something amazing (even if that’s kinda true).

• Guidelines:

  • Concise and engaging: Keep it short and sweet. Editors are busy!
  • Relevant writing experience: Mention previous publications, workshops, or writing groups.
  • Awards and recognition: If you’ve won any accolades, now’s the time to brag (subtly, of course).
  • Personal interests: A touch of personality can make you more memorable. Do you rescue kittens in your spare time? Are you a competitive chili cook? Let them know!
• Tailoring is key: Tweak your bio for each publication. If you’re submitting to a sci-fi magazine, highlight your love of spaceships and time travel. If you’re submitting to a literary journal, focus on your MFA and your passion for experimental prose.

Stay Connected: Providing Accurate Contact Information

This might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many writers mess this up. If an editor loves your story but can’t reach you, all your hard work will be for naught.

• Professional Email: Ditch the old “[email protected]” address and get something that sounds official. [email protected] is always a safe bet.
• Phone Number: To List or Not to List? This is a personal preference. Some writers prefer the immediacy of a phone call, while others prefer the buffer of email. If you do provide a phone number, make sure your voicemail is professional.
• Keep it Up-to-Date: If you move or change your email address, update your submission profiles immediately.

Final Note: Your submission package is your ambassador to the literary world. Make it count!

Part 5: Navigating the Submission Process – Platforms, Ethics, and Outcomes

Let’s talk strategy! You’ve prepped your story, found its perfect home, and crafted a killer submission package. Now, it’s time to send that baby out into the world. This part is all about actually navigating the submission process, from wrestling with online platforms to handling the emotional rollercoaster of acceptances (yay!) and rejections (boo!).

Mastering the Machine: Using Submission Platforms Effectively

These days, most literary magazines and journals use online submission platforms. Think of them as the digital post office for writers.

• Submittable is the big kahuna, the platform most publications use. You’ll need to create an account (it’s free!) and familiarize yourself with the interface. Don’t worry; it’s usually pretty intuitive. Just remember to read the instructions carefully for each submission.

• Navigating the Platform: Each journal has its own portal on Submittable. Make sure you select the correct category for your submission (e.g., “Short Story,” “Poetry,” “Flash Fiction”). Also, double-check that you’ve attached the correct file and that it’s properly formatted.

• Troubleshooting: Encountering issues? Don’t panic! Most platforms have a help section or FAQ. If you’re still stuck, reach out to the publication directly, but be polite and patient. Things can get glitchy, it happens!

The Ethics of Sharing: Understanding Simultaneous Submissions

Here’s where things get a little dicey… and ethical.

• Simultaneous Submissions: This means submitting your story to multiple publications at the same time. It’s generally accepted, but you need to be upfront about it.

• Check the Policy: Always, always, ALWAYS check the magazine’s policy on simultaneous submissions. It’s usually stated clearly in their submission guidelines. Some publications are cool with it; others aren’t.

• The Withdrawal Process: If your story gets accepted somewhere, fantastic! But you need to immediately withdraw it from all other publications where it’s under consideration. Most platforms have a withdrawal button or require you to send an email. Don’t ghost them! It’s unprofessional.

Embracing the Journey: Managing Acceptance and Rejection

Okay, reality check. Rejection is part of the game. Everyone gets rejected – even your favorite authors!

• Rejection is Normal: Don’t take it personally. Your story might not have been a good fit for that particular publication at that particular time. It doesn’t mean your story is bad.

• Growth Opportunity: View rejection as feedback. Analyze why your story might not have resonated. Did you rush the edits? Did you send it to the wrong place? Learn from the experience and keep writing.

• Grace and Resilience: Handle rejection with grace. Don’t send angry emails to editors (trust me, it won’t help). Thank them for their time, and move on. Resilience is key in this business.

From Submission to Print: Responding to Acceptance

• Celebrate! You deserve it! Do a little dance, eat some chocolate, and bask in the glory of your accomplishment.
• Review the Publication Agreement: Before you get too carried away, carefully read the publication agreement. Understand what rights you’re granting to the magazine (e.g., first publication rights, reprint rights). If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask the editor.
• Communicate Professionally: Respond to the acceptance notification promptly and professionally. Thank the editor, confirm your acceptance, and provide any requested information (e.g., updated author bio, headshot). Make their job easier!

Part 6: Post-Submission Etiquette and Long-Term Considerations

So, you’ve sent your precious story out into the world! Now what? It’s tempting to constantly refresh your email or stalk the magazine’s Twitter, but patience, young Padawan, is key. This section is all about navigating the aftermath – the waiting, the (inevitable) rejections, and the importance of remembering it all.

The Waiting Game: Following Up on Your Submission (When and How)

Ah, the dreaded waiting period. It can feel like an eternity, but trust me, editors are busy folks. Generally, you should wait at least the amount of time specified in the submission guidelines. If they say “6 months,” then resist the urge to email after only 2.

But what if the specified timeframe passes? Then, and only then, is it acceptable to send a gentle nudge. Here’s a template for a polite follow-up email:

Subject: Query Regarding Story Submission – [Your Story Title]

Dear [Editor’s Name, if known, otherwise “Editor”],

I am writing to inquire about the status of my short story, “[Your Story Title],” which I submitted on [Date of Submission]. I understand you are very busy, but I was hoping for an update at your convenience.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Key takeaways:

• Be polite: Assume the best. Editors aren’t intentionally ignoring you.
• Be concise: Get straight to the point.
• Don’t be demanding: Avoid phrases like “I expect an answer immediately!”

Warning: Never send multiple follow-up emails or bombard the magazine with messages on social media. It’s a surefire way to get blacklisted.

Turning the Page: Handling Rejection with Professionalism and Grace

Rejection is part of the writer’s life. Even Stephen King gets rejection letters! It stings, yes, but it’s not the end of the world. The key is to handle it with professionalism and grace.

Never, ever respond to an editor with a negative or defensive email. Vent to a trusted friend, punch a pillow, eat some chocolate but keep it to yourself. Resist the urge to fire back, even if you feel the rejection was unfair. Maintaining a positive reputation is crucial.

Instead, try to see rejection as an opportunity:

• Seek feedback: If the editor provided specific feedback, take it to heart.
• Revise and resubmit: Maybe the story wasn’t right for that particular magazine, but it might be perfect for another.
• Keep writing: Don’t let rejection derail you. The best way to overcome disappointment is to keep creating.

Your Literary Resume: Understanding Publication History

Treat your writing career like a business, and that means keeping meticulous records. Track every submission: where you sent it, when you sent it, and what the outcome was.

A simple spreadsheet works wonders, or you can use online tools designed specifically for tracking submissions.

Why is this important?

• Avoid duplicate submissions: You don’t want to accidentally send the same story to the same magazine twice.
• Identify trends: Are you consistently getting rejected for the same reason? This could indicate a weakness in your writing.
• Showcase your success: Keep your author bio up-to-date with any publications. This adds credibility and makes you more attractive to future editors.

Think of your submission record as your literary resume. It’s a testament to your hard work, perseverance, and dedication to the craft. And who knows, one day it might be a very impressive document indeed!

So, there you have it! Your cover letter is your first handshake with an editor, so make it count. Keep it concise, professional, and let your story speak for itself. Now go get ’em!