Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Backlist • Synopsis • Wholesaler

Query Letter

Term from Book Publishing industry explained for recruiters

A Query Letter is a one-page business letter that writers use to pitch their book to literary agents or publishers. Think of it like a job application cover letter, but for books. It's usually the first contact between a writer and a publishing professional, summarizing the book's content, target audience, and why it might sell well. Similar terms include "pitch letter" or "submission letter." This is a crucial skill in publishing because it's often the gateway to getting a manuscript considered by industry professionals.

Examples in Resumes

Reviewed over 200 Query Letters per month and provided feedback to authors

Streamlined the Query Letter evaluation process, reducing response time by 50%

Developed guidelines for authors on writing effective Query Letters and Pitch Letters

Typical job title: "Literary Agents"

Also try searching for:

Literary Agent Assistant Literary Agent Query Reader Submissions Manager Editorial Assistant Publishing Assistant Literary Agency Assistant

Where to Find Literary Agents

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you evaluate the market potential of a book based on its query letter?

Expected Answer: Should discuss analyzing current market trends, comparable titles, unique selling points, and author platform, while demonstrating knowledge of what makes a book commercially viable in today's market.

Q: What's your process for building and maintaining a client list?

Expected Answer: Should explain strategies for finding new talent, balancing different genres, managing existing clients, and understanding the financial aspects of author representation.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the essential elements of a strong query letter?

Expected Answer: Should identify key components: hook, book summary, author bio, and market analysis, while explaining why each element matters in decision-making.

Q: How do you handle rejection responses to query letters?

Expected Answer: Should discuss professional communication, time management, standard rejection practices, and when to provide personalized feedback.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between a query letter and a synopsis?

Expected Answer: Should explain that a query letter is a brief pitch letter while a synopsis is a detailed summary of the entire book, understanding their different purposes in submissions.

Q: How do you organize and track incoming query letters?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic systems for managing submissions, response times, and maintaining organized records of communications with authors.