I have new writers ask me this all the time. For those of you who don’t know, a simultaneous submission is when you send a story, article or book proposal to more than one publisher/publication at the same time. This works great for the writer, since it allows him to hear “Yes” or “No” from several publishers in a short time. It’s bad for publishers/publications because they spend time going over the submission in one or more department meetings to see if it’s right for them. They may even block out space in a publication for the story before contacting the writer. When they do contact the writer they may find that another publication has already bought the story or proposal. Because of this a simultaneous submission must be considered, and a decision reached, more quickly than for other submissions. It puts additional pressure on the publisher or publication. But if they say it’s okay to do this, then go ahead. I always send to publishers that take simultaneous submissions first.

To send a simultaneous submission, first, check the publication’s or publisher’s guidelines to be sure they accept them.  If they do, the rest is easy. Simply write a cover letter as normal, but toward the bottom include, “Be advised that this proposal (or article) is being reviewed by other publishers (or publications). That’s it.

Once you’ve done this, just wait for the offers and contracts to come flooding in. I know, I know.. I’m ROFL.

It does show professionalism if you notify the publishers that someone has purchased your manuscript, so they won’t spend any more time considering your work.

Have Fun,
Jeff

writing