Have you ever dreamt of penning the great American novel? Of writing your way through Europe on an assignment for your favorite travel magazine? Of writing your own memoirs or becoming the expert on call for a trade journal? Knowing how to sell what you write is as important as knowing how to write, and many promising writers waste the chance of a lifetime by breaking some of the cardinal rules of the publishing industry. Here are a few vital tips to help you get your foot in the door of your favorite publisher.

Do know your market. Find a specific market for what you write, and find out what a publisher or agent specifically wants from you. Some publishers may only want a query (a letter introducing you as an author and your manuscript), while others may want to see a full proposal with sample chapters. Visit an agent or publisher’s website for guidelines on what to submit and how to develop a proposal. Don’t waste your time and money sending manuscripts or proposals to publishers who don’t work with unpublished authors or to agents who don’t represent your type of writing (i.e. you write science fiction, but they only represent cook books.) Take the time to research publishers who are looking specifically for what you write, and you’ll greatly increase your chances of publication.

Do be professional. You wouldn’t show up to a job interview in your torn Super Bowl XXXII sweatshirt, so don’t send out your manuscript in less than perfect condition. Don’t badger editors or agents with phone calls, emails or presents. Remember, they see thousands of submissions a week, and what you may think is a cute way to get their attention is probably just annoying. Treat an editor or agent with the same professional respect you would show to a prospective employer, and be patient! It may be a few months before you receive a response to your submission.