The Self Addressed Stamped Envelope

I've gotten a dozen that way, so be sure to open them.

Yes, the process works. Sometimes they respond via email instead of using your SASE, though. For me, it helps to have a realistic attitude about it. I send out lots and lots of queries and expect lots and lots of rejections. I have to laugh and celebrate each one.

A published author may have different results, of course.

My second acceptance - and check - came in the SASE I provided with my spec article. I remember turning to my hound dog and saying, "Great, another rejection." Then I opened it, and the next thing you know I was doing the happy dance!

And, uh, yeah, I do talk to my dog. A lot.

Query

zeprosnepsid said:

Has anyone every gotten a bite on their query returned in their self addressed stamped envelope? Or can I pretty much assume it's a no as soon as I see my own handwriting?

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Depending on the area, literally hundreds. Most often it's been article queries for magazines, but a few short story queries have been answered this way.

But I would suggest you avoid writing in longhand and either print directly on the envelope, or use printed labels.

Professionalism can be important, and rightly or wrongly, handwritten addresses can give a bad first impression.

zeprosnepsid said:

Has anyone every gotten a bite on their query returned in their self addressed stamped envelope? Or can I pretty much assume it's a no as soon as I see my own handwriting?

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I got a request for partial on my novel in my SSAE.

Oh yeah, I get requests all the time in my own SASE. Acceptance, however, usually comes from email or company stationery.

Yep. I've had contracts sent back (along with rejections!) in mine. Always open them, just in case.

Yes. Followed by many rejections to requested material in subsequent SASE's. Wadded up, they make great cat toys.

bird

Arrowqueen, I think the reason you get rejections is because of your typewriter. Do you realize you're limiting yourself by typing on a machine with only twelve keys?

Yes, I've gotten requests this way, although usually requests have been via e-mail.