Mr. Steven Smith
Features Editor Interesting News
1 West St
New York. NY. 10036 U.S.A
The complexities of HTML don't allow me to right align the return address but it's obvious isn't it? Include every conceivable method of contact, phone, fax, mobile number, email, pager, URL, get the idea?
I recently received a copy of Interesting News. It was well laid out and written although we don’t see it on the newsstands here in Georgia. At present, I am a freelance writer who writes in a variety of styles and formats for different publications.
My story idea involves an overview of the Dandenong Ranges situated just east of Melbourne, my hometown. The recent moves by the State authorities to lower the age limit on retirement homes to twenty-five has meant that our retirement villages here are filling up fast. This has placed a heavy burden on our hard working volunteers. I have written an 800 - word article covering the work at three retirement villages in my city. It gives a brief overview of the new regulations and our volunteers tell the story in their own words. As a local, I am well placed both geographically and in terms of contacts to write such a story.
My recent articles include ‘The Golfing Meltdown’ published in the Florida Tribune, and ‘Know Your Cat,’ Published in Cat Times. I am including hard copies of two most recent articles these should give you a brief picture of my capabilities.
Please either email or use the enclosed SSAE to indicate your interest in the story idea and/or other ideas you may have relating to retirement homes. I need to know the approximate story length, your format for photographs and please enclose a style sheet.
Alastair Rosie
Freelance Writer
In this query letter I've told Steven Smith that I received his publication. I've added the fact that we don't see it in Florida. I can see him reaching for the phone now ready to bawl his distributor out! I've told him I liked it and introduced myself as a freelance writer all in one paragraph.
My next paragraph is very important because it sells the idea. That's what writing is all about, selling the story to a busy editor. I haven't gone on for half a page have I? It's short and sweet and gives him info about the new regulations in Florida, as a worn out thirty-year old he might like to take advantage of the new rules! Notice ou've told him you're a local, that's selling yourself.
Your next paragraph tells him your publishing credits, whether they're paying pieces or not. You're also sending proof just in case he doubts you.
Your next and closing paragraph asks him to send you all the information you need in order to make his job easier, otherwise he'll go to Florida and retire won't he? It closes with some praise for his magazine. You did like it didn't you? It wishes him all the best for the future, manners are very important in this business use them!