Beta Reader Group discussion

Hello everyone,

I’m about to begin the query process for a second time. The first one was an unenjoyable process, and I’m looking to make this one better, so I thought I’d ask for tips. In particular, I’m interested in knowing:
* What do you find to be the most painful parts of querying?
* What tools do you currently use to manage the process?
* Are your query letters basically a template in which you replace the same parts each time, or do you write a mostly new one for each agent?

I appreciate the feedback!

Thanks Ethan - I appreciate the feedback...!

Hi, Curran, I'm self-publishing now, but I'll answer based on my previous query experience.

* What do you find to be the most painful parts of querying?
waiting, waiting, waiting, waiting...

* What tools do you currently use to manage the process?
I used a combination of QueryTracker & an Excel spreadsheet.

* Are your query letters basically a template in which you replace the same parts each time, or do you write a mostly new one for each agent?
I set up a template in gmail to include the blurb and the book info (length, genre, etc). It saved time over cutting & pasting the same info again & again. But I'd personalize it for each agent & tell them what I'm attaching according to their instructions.

Hope it helps. Best of luck!

Thanks Gifford - your comments will definitely help!

* What do you find to be the most painful parts of querying?
Waiting and rejections:(

* What tools do you currently use to manage the process?
Query Tracker
Word doc

* Are your query letters basically a template in which you replace the same parts each time, or do you write a mostly new one for each agent?

The blurb sometimes remains the same but customized to what the agent is looking for. usually a different opening highlighting why i think my book is a good fit for them

Much appreciated Justine!

*The most painful part of the querying process for me is the form letter rejections. I hate when the assistant to the agent I'm querying rejects me on their behalf. I don't know if they even read my query letter

*I didn't know where to start so I just use a website called Query Tracker but I'm open to finding another resource

*I write a new letter for each agent because now I try to research the agent to find out exactly what they're looking for in a client/book. I also want to stay sharp in pitching my book