Impatience or delay?
Why do some Pubs delay stories?
… Have you actually found yourself in this situation? If yes, too often?
For authors, sending in drafts to magazines can be both a thrilling and nerve-wracking process.
You put everything into creating the ideal work, hoping it would be accepted and published.
But occasionally, especially when publishers take longer than anticipated to assess and accept your work, the waiting game may get annoying.
What can you do if there are delays of this kind? The following techniques will assist you in handling this situation:
1. It Takes Patience
Although it’s easier said than done, waiting patiently for publication feedback is essential.
Recognize that editors have their own schedules to handle and frequently receive a large number of submissions.
Allow them the time they require to thoroughly consider your work and decide.
2. Significantly Follow Up
It is permissible to send a courteous follow-up email to find out the status of your submission if a considerable amount of time has gone by without receiving a response.
Restate your interest in having your work considered for publication in a succinct and professional manner.
3. Look for Comments Somewhere Else
Avoid putting all your eggs in one basket while you’re waiting on a response from a single publisher.
If the criteria don’t specifically state otherwise, think about sending your work concurrently to other magazines.
By doing this, you not only improve your chances of being accepted but also lessen the effect of any possible delays caused by a single publication.
4. Examine the guidelines for submissions
Make sure you have read the publication’s submission rules twice.
Make sure you’ve adhered to all guidelines accurately, especially those regarding formatting, word count, and any special needs.
Submissions that don’t follow the publication’s rules can occasionally create delays.
5. Establish Connections and Networks
Develop connections with editors and other authors in the publishing industry.
Participate in writing groups, go to writing events, and interact with them on social media.
Making contacts can occasionally speed up the filing process and offer insightful information about potential delays.
6. Consider Withdrawal
If too much time has gone by and you haven’t heard back from anyone despite following up, you might choose to withdraw your submission.
As a writer, you have to value your time and work. Seek out alternative opportunities where your efforts will be recognized and respected.
7. Make Use of Other Platforms
Look into other platforms for sharing your work if regular magazines are taking too long or are too difficult to use.
Without requiring editors’ permission, one can immediately reach an audience through websites, blogs, and social media.
8. Remain Positive and Persistent
Delays and rejections are inevitable when writing. Continue to be tenacious in your endeavors and retain an optimistic outlook.
Take advantage of every experience — positive or negative — as a chance to learn and develop.
In conclusion, even though it can be annoying to wait for newspapers to accept your drafts, it’s critical to maintain your composure, initiative, and resilience. By using these techniques and keeping a polished demeanor, you may go through the submission process with ease and keep moving on with your writing objectives. Recall that perseverance eventually pays off.
