So, you’ve finished your manuscript. That alone is a huge achievement, and if no one has told you that yet, we will – well done!
Now comes the step that many writers find more daunting than the writing itself: submitting. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, the submission process can feel strange and vulnerable. But it doesn’t have to be a shot in the dark.
Having been on the receiving end of submissions, we want to share a few things we’ve noticed that can really make or break a submission’s success. These aren’t tricks or shortcuts. Just simple ways to show that you care about your work and the people you’re sending it to. (Hint: A little effort goes a long way!)
1. Read the submission guidelines (all the way through).
It may sound obvious, but you’d be surprised. Every publisher has slightly different requirements. Some want a synopsis, some want a sample chapter, and some want the whole manuscript. Paying attention to the details shows respect for the process – and it makes it easier for publishers to focus on your writing, not admin gaps.
Skipping the basics (like word count, formatting, or file type) can hurt your chances more than you think.
2. Proofread. Then proofread again. And again.
We get it; typos happen. But a clean manuscript tells us that you’ve taken the time to polish your work before putting it forward. It’s one of the first signs of professionalism and care, giving us insight into what you as a writer might be like to work with. Plus, it helps us to engage more deeply with the story itself rather than being distracted by careless errors.
A few careful reads (and maybe a fresh pair of eyes) go a long way.
3. Do some research.
Publishers don’t expect you to have studied their entire booklist, but it’s worth getting a sense of the kind of work they publish and what they value. A publishing house’s website and social media platforms give a strong sense of their voice and what kind of stories they lean toward.
If it seems like your story may not sit comfortably next to the ones they already support or if it doesn’t align with their values presented, then maybe that isn’t the publisher for you. And that’s okay!
Instead, you may be better off submitting to a publisher that feels more aligned instead of spending your time and energy on a submission that will likely result in a rejection due to a mismatch. Curious about this? Read our blog post on the shotgun vs targeted approach of submitting your manuscript.
4. Personalise your cover letter.
We have three main tips for this:
- Do not send a generic, AI-generated cover letter.
- Do not send a generic, AI-generated cover letter.
- Do not send a generic, AI-generated cover letter.
We understand the temptation, but a writer’s work is unique and your pitch should reflect that uniqueness. A templated letter rarely captures what makes your story yours – and that’s what publishers are looking to connect with when they read your submission.
Think of your cover letter as a tiny showcase of your style. It’s your first chance to show us how you write, how you think, and what kind of storyteller you are.
You don’t have to write a formal essay. (In fact, we prefer if you don’t.) Consider, instead, a short but genuine cover letter that tells us a bit about who you are, your history as an author (published or not, we all have a history!), why you’re choosing to submit to us, and what your story means to you. Aim for one page.
Avoid vague phrases like “To whom it may concern”. If possible, find the name of the publisher you are addressing. If that information isn’t available, go for “To the team at [publishing house name]”.
Publishers are people too, and there is likely someone reading every submission (especially at smaller publishing houses like ours at Vindigo Press). So, address us directly and let your voice come through! We want to see the real you.
5. Keep it professional (but still you).
You don’t have to sell yourself like you’re pitching to a marketing team. There’s no need for gimmicks or overly bold claims. Just be clear, respectful, and honest.
At the same time, don’t be afraid to be yourself; we care more about your voice than your polish. If your story is compelling, and your tone is real, we will take notice.
6. Trust the process.
We know it can be hard to send your work out – especially when rejections come back, or worse, when nothing comes back at all. But not hearing back doesn’t always mean that your work isn’t good. Sometimes it’s just about fit, timing, or capacity.
What we can promise is this: If you submit to us, we will read your work with care. If it’s not a fit, we will let you know. If it is, we’ll work with you closely to bring it to life.
Could We Be the Right Fit?
We’re a small team, but we care deeply about the books we publish – and just as much about the people behind them. If your writing is intentional, alive, and crafted with care, there’s a good chance we’ll want to read it.
Our submission guidelines offer more insight into the stories we value and how you can submit your work to us. Our door is open!
Take your time. Craft your pitch. And when you’re ready, we’re here.