When to Follow Up

Don't follow up. Move on, work on other projects. Something good can still come of it and if it doesn't you've moved on.

I had something with an editor for such a long time that I just assumed she didn't like it. Then one day out of the blue she called and said she wanted to work with me.

Editors are busy people...

I've never had good luck with following up.

janetbellinger said:

I've never had good luck with following up.

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I imagine that it would become bothersome/tiresome to those youre following up with.

As was said above, move on and wait it out. Maybe take the time to tighten up what you originally sent out.

Pop, I think it forces their hand too much. A patient author is a non-threatening author. I think psychology weighs heavily in this area. My follow-ups have resulted in instant rejection, or excuses like, "Didn't you get that rejection?"

Tri

Well I know this makes things confusing, but I had a good experience following up. Two months after submitting my full MS to an agency I called just to see what was up. The assistant on the phone was geniunely perplexed and said she'd talk to the agent. I then got an email that day from the agent apologising for the delay, and that she would finish the MS over the weekend. She did, had a few editorial comments, and to make a very long story short she is now my agent. I think if they are going to reject you they will anyway. I don't think if they like the story and you call and very polietly, with no pressure, make a simple enquiry, that they will automatically reject you. Just remember to wait for a good period of time, and if you do inquire, be polite and short.

Good point, tooth. You certainly are an exception to the rule, and yes, it can go the other way and result in a positive.

Tri