Letter of Introduction for Book Editors: Making a Connection
A top tip is to use a letter of introduction for book editors to make a connection with potential clients.
Making a Connection with a Letter of Introduction for Book Editors
I’m a big fan of reaching out to potential clients directly to let them know you exist. The letter of introduction (LOI) is a time-tested way to market, and as a freelance editor, I’ve used it successfully to sell my services to book publishers and packagers. I don’t use LOIs to target indie authors as this seems like it would be a lot more work than it’s worth.
But to solicit freelance work from a company that might be worth tens of thousands of dollars to me over the course of a client relationship? Yes, that’s a worthwhile investment of my time and energy.
An LOI should create a point of connection between you and the potential client, something that says you are specifically targeting this client for a reason. Ideally these points of connection are customized to the particular person you’re reaching out to:
- “I just finished reading TITLE, which I know you edited. I loved that book! And I would love to be part of making books like that.”
- “I saw your call on LinkedIn for a freelance proofreader and wanted to introduce myself.”
- “I saw your blog post about Stephen King’s new novel and I have to say I’m a huge fan of his, too. As a freelance developmental editor specializing in horror . . . .”
None of this is rocket science and it doesn’t have to take that long. It’s not hard to say something specific and positive.
But if you don’t have time to track down a point of connection or can’t quickly find one, then it’s okay to just state your business:
- “I’m writing because I’m a freelance developmental editor who . . . .”
But DO NOT do what a recent marketer did to me:
- “Hi Jennifer! I’m reaching out because I noticed we both follow the same personal finance advisors on LinkedIn.”
No, you didn’t. I don’t follow financial advisors on LinkedIn. I follow (and connect with) book people. So what you’re doing is lying to me.
That is not a good look.
If you can’t take a few minutes to customize your LOI, then don’t try to customize it. And for all that’s good in the world, don’t try to start a business relationship with a lie.
Tips for Editors & Writers
-
Editor Insight: Sam Keir
I’ve been talking with newer and more established freelance editors about how they find clients and deal with ups and downs in freelancing. This week’s editor is Sam Keir, who notes that he’s worked with words since 2013, “in various roles of editor, educator (secondary and tertiary), and author, but which one or three depends…
-
Should You List Your Rates on Your Website?
A question I’m frequently asked is “Should freelance editors put their rates on their website?” My answer? Yes. It’s important for potential clients to have some idea of what you charge. Part of what a potential client is evaluating when they are deciding if you’ll be a good fit is whether they have the budget…
-
Editor Insight: Shannon Scott
I’ve been asking newer editors for insights into how they find clients and deal with the ups and downs of freelancing. This week’s editor is Shannon Scott, who has been self-employed since July 2021, going full-time in December 2023. This is our Q&A: Tell me a little about your background and the kind of editing…
