Thanks, But No Thanks.
This is Part II in our three-part serious on the various forms of rejection.
Form rejections from literary agents are preferable to no response at all. No matter the tone or style of a reply – curt and dismissive or gentle and reassuring – at least writers know where they stand and can move on to their next batch of queries. The form serves an essential function and that is to tell us “No.”
Helpful rejections from literary agents are few and far between and represent the gold standard of query responses. No answer at all, which we’ll discuss next time, feels like being ghosted. Somewhere in the middle of helpful and non-existent lie the formulaic replies that, while most definitely not 24-karat, do seem to be the industry standard when seeking representation for book projects.
One of the most difficult things, not only in querying but in life, is not knowing what to expect. QueryTracker is one tool that gathers data from users and offers percentages on how often agents reply to author queries as well as their average response times. In other words, it helps manage expectations. On agency websites, some submission guidelines state that writers can anticipate hearing back within 60 or 90 days, for example. Again, helpful info.
A glance at the indie publisher Two Sisters Press reveals this Five-Star statement:
We believe in Brené Brown's assertion that "Clear is kind," so EVERY submission will receive a reply within 3-4 weeks, even if we are unable to accept your manuscript.
If only everyone were this clear and kind. One literary agency’s submission guidelines included the caveat: “Please note we only respond to queries in which we are interested.” Smacks a bit of “we’re far too busy and important,” but earns points for setting clear expectations.
Form letters are generally short, if not sweet, although some are crafted in a way that is encouraging and leaves an author with hope of eventually landing that perfect agent and book deal.
Here are some examples of form query responses from literary agents:
· After careful review of your query and sample pages, unfortunately, I'm going to have to pass. I'm truly sorry not to be writing with better news, but given my fuller list and the competitive marketplace, I have to be pickier than ever in my decision-making. Please keep in mind that publishing is a subjective industry. Although this didn't work for me, that doesn't mean it wouldn't work for someone else.
“I’m sorry” is a pretty common sentiment in these replies. We like the reminders that the marketplace is competitive, publishing is subjective, and that others may feel differently about a project. As far as form rejections go, this is a good one.
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· I sincerely appreciate you considering me for representation and for your kind email, but I'm going to pass. I'm sorry that I don't have time to give specific reasons why, but I sincerely wish you the best…
“I don’t have time” is a tad imperious and we wonder if there is another way to phrase this. Maybe even, “I wish I had time…”
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· I am lucky to have a full and active client list and for that reason, I've become very particular about taking on new clients.
This begs the question: Then why are you even open to queries?
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· This is not right for me but thank you for the look.
Short, if not sweet, and is better than nothing.
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· Thanks so much for your query. Unfortunately, your project doesn’t sound right for (Agent)’s list.
This reply was sent by an assistant, which leaves the author wondering if the agent ever actually saw their inquiry at all.
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We want to hear your rejection stories! Reach out to us here and follow us on Instagram.
Remember, whether helpful, form, or non-existent, rejection is not a reflection of who you are as a writer or a human being. Keep pitching and querying! Success awaits.