From: How I Got Published.
- Join a critique group.
- Complete your manuscript and your query letter and at least one synopsis.
- Edit it until it screams.
- come up with a gripping title (and incredible concept).
- Enter writing contests (gets you meetings with agents/editors).
- Research Literary Agents and agencies (so you know what they like to represent and can personalize your query to them – and so you know what their submission guidelines are).
- Go to Conferences (fish where the fish are biting) and make yourself known to the agents and editors so you can open your query with the line, “When I met you at the blah, blah conference you said I should send this to you.”
- Develop a submissions schedule and mail queries out every week; log your responses. Your critique group can help you perfect your query letter and synopsis.
- Develop a thick skin. Remember, how you handle rejection is a matter of attitude.
- NEVER GIVE UP.
