What is a Short Story Submission Cover Letter?
A short story submission cover letter is a brief, professional letter accompanying your short story manuscript when you submit it to a literary magazine, journal, or publisher. It serves as your introduction to the editor, providing essential information about your story, your credentials, and why your work is a good fit for their publication. It’s your first impression, and a well-crafted cover letter can significantly increase your chances of getting your story read and potentially published. Think of it as your elevator pitch, tailored for the specific publication you’re targeting. This document is a critical piece of the submission puzzle, and often overlooked by aspiring writers, which can make the difference between a rejection and acceptance.
Why is a Cover Letter Important for Short Story Submissions?
The importance of a cover letter cannot be overstated. It’s the first thing the editor will see, even before they read your story. A well-written cover letter demonstrates professionalism, attention to detail, and respect for the publication. It shows that you’ve done your research, understand their audience, and are serious about getting published. Without a cover letter, your submission might be perceived as less professional or less thoughtful, potentially leading to immediate rejection. It also allows you to highlight relevant details about your story, such as its genre, themes, and unique aspects, making it easier for the editor to understand the story’s potential fit within their publication. This introductory document sets the tone and the standard for your work.
Essential Elements of a Cover Letter
A strong cover letter is concise, informative, and tailored to the specific publication. It should include several key elements to effectively introduce yourself and your story. Omitting even one of these can hurt the overall success of your letter.
Your Contact Information
At the top left of your cover letter, include your name, address, email address, and phone number. This allows the editor to easily contact you. Make sure this information is accurate and up-to-date.
The Date
Underneath your contact information, include the date you are submitting the letter. This helps the editor keep track of when they received your submission.
Submission Details
Clearly state that you are submitting a short story for consideration. Mention the story’s title and the word count. This provides the editor with essential information about the submission at a glance.
Publisher’s Name and Address
Address the letter to the editor by name, if possible. If not, use a generic salutation such as “Dear Editor.” Include the publisher’s name and address in the correct format.
Polite Salutations
Begin the letter with a polite salutation. This sets a professional tone from the beginning.
Brief Story Summary
Provide a very brief summary of your story, highlighting its genre, themes, and unique aspects. Keep it concise – a few sentences are sufficient. This helps the editor understand the story’s premise quickly.
Mention of Previous Publications or Awards
If you have any previous publications or writing awards, briefly mention them. This can enhance your credibility, but don’t overdo it. Focus on the most relevant achievements.
Gratitude and Closing
Express your gratitude for the editor’s time and consideration. End with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully,” followed by your name.
Proofreading and Formatting
Attention to detail is crucial. A cover letter riddled with errors can undermine your credibility. Correct formatting and a final review is necessary before submission.
Formatting Your Cover Letter
Use a standard font like Times New Roman or Arial, and keep the font size at 12 points. Use single spacing within paragraphs and double spacing between paragraphs. Maintain a professional and readable format.
Proofread Thoroughly
Proofread your cover letter multiple times for any grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, or typos. Consider asking a friend or colleague to review it as well. Errors can create a negative impression.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Several common mistakes can diminish the impact of your cover letter. Avoiding these pitfalls can significantly improve your chances of success.
Overly Long Letters
Keep your cover letter concise. Editors are busy, and they appreciate brevity. Aim for one page, and stick to the essential information.
Generic and Unprofessional Language
Avoid generic phrases and clichés. Use professional language and a respectful tone. Tailor your letter to the specific publication to show that you’ve done your research.
Ignoring Submission Guidelines
Always carefully read and adhere to the submission guidelines of the publication you are targeting. Failure to follow these guidelines can lead to immediate rejection. Pay attention to word count limits, formatting requirements, and any specific instructions provided by the publisher.
Submitting Without Proofreading
As mentioned earlier, proofreading is critical. Typos and grammatical errors reflect poorly on you as a writer. Always proofread your cover letter and story before submitting.
In conclusion, a well-crafted short story submission cover letter is an essential component of your submission package. By following these guidelines and avoiding common mistakes, you can significantly improve your chances of getting your story read and potentially published. Take the time to write a professional, polished letter that highlights your story’s strengths and showcases your writing abilities. Good luck with your submissions!