Your query letter is your job application 📝

Today's guest is agent Lauren Liebow.

For many authors, writing isn’t just a creative pursuit — it’s a career.

And just like any other career path, becoming a published author requires more than just talent; it demands persistence, strategy, and an understanding of the industry and of the bottom line.

Think of querying like your job application.

The first step in climbing the publishing career ladder is to submit a strong query letter that positions you and your book as the perfect candidates for the job. Much like writing a cover letter for any other position, your letter should highlight what makes your story unique.

There are so many other authors who are also “applying” for your dream job — being a published author — so it’s essential to put your best foot forward and highlight what sets you and your book apart.

In today’s interview, agent Lauren Liebow shares exactly how to build a writing career, from crafting an eye-catching query letter to forming industry connections and more.

---

OUR SPECIAL GUEST TODAY IS…

Lauren Liebow

Agent

Lauren is currently open to queries! You can find details about what she’s looking for on her MSWL.

What separates a strong, successful query from one that you pass on?

A strong query letter will set up the characters, setting, premise, and the main conflict. I’ll tend to pass if I can’t distinguish those basics up front. Personally, I find that the letters that set themselves apart use clear and precise language to talk about their project without repeating themselves or relying on filler words and phrases. I’m not as interested in the genres or categories that the project fits into, nor am I interested in the reasons why I should be a good fit for the project.

Strategic letters will also lean into the strengths of the manuscript—for example, if you’ve received feedback that your characters are really well-written, you might add an extra sentence or two that will make me want to get to know them better.

I’m also curious to know more about the author. I like to see a bio included in the query letter to help me understand what makes you unique, and why you’re the very best person to tell this story. If you have a personal relationship with the topics in your story, I’d love to keep that in mind while reading.

What is one thing you wish emerging authors knew about the publishing industry or the traditional publishing process?

Publishing is a business, so editors and publishers have bottom lines that they need to meet. I recommend that authors spend some time considering how their book will fill a gap that they notice in the market. What makes your book stand out against the other books already out there? What will make your readers want to recommend this book to their friends and post about it on social media?

How can querying authors ensure their sample pages are engaging and intriguing?

The projects that really impress me will set up a clear and compelling “big picture” message or higher-level concept—even in the upmarket/commercial fiction spaces—along with well-crafted characters and a timely and moving plot. I look for stories that create something greater than the sum of their parts. If you can set up these elements within 20-50 pages and get me to feel personally invested in your characters and their motivations while also showing off your writing style and unique voice in the process, I’ll likely want to read more. Even if there are weaknesses elsewhere in the manuscript, I’m eager to work with writers to help them iron out those issues if I find that I believe in the bigger concepts that the book chooses to address.

What traits or qualities do you look for in a potential client?

I love to work with writers who are friendly, enthusiastic, and open to receiving my feedback. My goal as an agent is not only to help you sell a book, but also to develop your career as an author. Just like any career path, there are sometimes setbacks, and I challenge the authors I work with to make improvements to their craft. It’s always a pleasure to work with clients who are resilient and bring a great attitude to our work together.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a writer who aspires to be published?

Get your name out there! You may want to start building up a public platform for yourself while working on your writing—that might entail posting on social media and growing a dedicated following, or submitting short pieces of fiction to literary journals and prize organizations, or even speaking at events and establishing yourself as a public figure in a way that feels accessible and authentic to your personality. Regardless of how you want to approach it, finding other writers and industry connections will enrich your understanding of the publishing landscape and could provide insight and new perspectives that will, in turn, help your writing process.

What tips would you give authors who are trying to determine if their manuscript is agent-ready?

Publishing is really competitive. Agents and editors receive hundreds, if not thousands, of pitches every year. Think of it like a job application: you want to put your best foot forward, because you know there are a lot of other talented applicants who are also trying to get the spot you’re vying for, too. Getting feedback from other writers and editors can also be helpful. Try to reach out to people who can be objective and honest. Writing can seem like a solitary process, but receiving feedback in a low-stakes environment will help prepare you for our work together and point out any room for improvement in the manuscript.

---

Looking for more writing and publishing tips?

I’ve got you!

❓ Editor Answers Most Common Querying Questions (YouTube)

🤩 THIS is the secret to becoming a successful author (X/Twitter)

🧑 What should you include in your author bio? (Reels)

Follow me on X/Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok for daily bite-sized tips. 🍪

Want the whole meal? Check out my full library of 300+ in-depth writing and publishing lessons on YouTube. That’s 40+ hours of totally free content waiting for you! 🤯