Writing guide
How long should you wait for an editor?
A realistic approach to editor response times, follow-ups and what silence usually means.
There is no universal answer, but good practices help.
Read the stated window first. If the guideline says “we reply within two weeks,” respect that. BRYME records stated response times and flags when they are not stated.
The default patience rule. If nothing is stated, a couple of weeks before a short follow-up is reasonable.
Understand what silence usually means. No response is rarely a personal rejection — it is usually just a busy editor. But it is also not acceptance.
When to move on. After a follow-up or two with no reply, politely treat it as a pass and pitch elsewhere.
Keep the relationship. A brief, gracious note leaves the door open for a future pitch.
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Page reviewed 27 September 2026 · re-checked at every desk sweep