By Penny Nolan
Query Tracker is an amazing way for writers to look up agents and their querying information. It also logs your submission if the agent is using Query Manager. Neat! Query Tracker shows you how far down you are on the querying list, how long agents typically take to respond, etc. They have lots of videos that show how things work.
Most agents use Query Manager. There will be a form to fill out. It is acceptable to cut and paste answers from your query into the answer sections of the form.
Other agents may have you submit by email. Either way, follow their instructions perfectly!
In addition to Query Tracker, you’ll need a way to keep track of the agents, editors, and publishers you submit to. Be sure to list which agency, when you submitted, which manuscripts you submitted, and their responses. I use an Excel worksheet. There are other nifty systems for writers out there, too. Sometimes, agents say that if you haven’t heard from them by a specified time, then it is a rejection. So, I include a space to note that as well. They may also say that a rejection from one agent is considered a rejection from all the agents at that agency. So, I have a space for that, too.
Some agents respond immediately. But it can take months. Many people will submit to more than one agent at a time. I do. Query Tracker emails a weekly update about agents. I make that my weekly submission time.
Rejections are part of being a writer. Your writing may be wonderful, but it all depends on what publishers are looking for at that moment. Keep going! Rejections are mostly form letters. Once in a while, you will get one with a bit of precious feedback. Use that to make your writing better.
Don’t give up!
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