Want to Improve Your Chances of Getting Published?
Follow the Rule of 12. Simply stated the Rule of 12 is, you should have at least twelve query letters in circulation at all times. That’s right, you should have twelve query letters on editor’s desks at all times.
Now having twelve queries in front of editors is a bit scary, because that opens you up to lots of rejection. And, while it’s part of being a freelance writer, being rejected is hard. On the other hand, having twelve queries making the editorial rounds will have a tremendous and positive impact on your success as a freelance writer.
How? You’ll get better at writing query letters – a good skill for any freelance writer. You’ll receive more acceptance letters. And, since you’re receiving more acceptances, you’ll earn more money. Now that may be over simplified, but I think you get the point. As Tony Robbins says, “Massive action will yield massive results.”
Getting to the point where you have twelve query letters out will take some time. Set a goal for yourself. Try to send out two or even three query letters every week until you have twelve in circulation.
Once you have twelve queries out, one of two things will happen. One, you’ll receive a rejection letter. In that case review your query to ensure that it is clear and concise and send it out to another editor. Two, you’ll receive a go-ahead for the article. In that case, write another query letter and get it in the mail or email, within 24 hours if at all possible, and get to work writing the article.
In time you’ll find that you are receiving fewer and fewer rejection and receiving more assignments. Congratulations on your assignment.
Until next time …
No day without a line.
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