Nov 21 2008
Send Completed Manuscripts
When sending out poetry submissions to magazines and publishers it is imperative that you follow two basic rules.
Make sure your manuscript/submission is complete and free of errors before sending it to the publisher.
If you are snail mailing a manuscript make sure to include a SASE (self addressed stamped envelope).
There is nothing that screams amateur more than sending a submission which you keep asking the editor to revise. It not only shows amateurish work but also says you really don’t care about your work and are just looking for publication credits. Plus, it will irritate the editor to a point where your future submissions will more than likely end up in the recycle bin.
Secondly, it is just courteous to include a SASE with your submission. If you do not, many editors will automatically trash your manuscript without reading. Look at it this way. Many publishers receive thousands of manuscripts per month. Why should they pay for your postage? Bottom line is to remember that your work is a reflection of you. Be professional and courteous and editors will very much appreciate your efforts.
Curious - is it still common to submit on paper? I haven’t used a paper resume for years and I guess I assumed that authors would submit electronic files rather than bother with paper any more?
Lis - There are many magazines and publishers which still require paper submissions. It’s usually the ones who have been around for quite some time. Then there are others who want you to submit both electronically and by snail mail. I had to do that recently, submit both. It just depends on the publisher.