Business Letters for Busy People PDF

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 Business Letters for Busy People Edited by National Press Publications National Press Publications A Division of Rockhurst University Continuing Education Center, Inc. 6901 West 63rd St....

Contents | Index | Search Back
 Business Letters for Busy People Edited by National Press Publications National Press Publications A Division of Rockhurst University Continuing Education Center, Inc. 6901 West 63rd St. P.O. Box 2949 Shawnee Mission, KS 66201-1349 1-800-258-7246 1-913-432-7757 Contents | Index | Search Back
 Business Letters for Busy People Contents | Index | Search Back
 National Press Publications endorses nonsexist language. In an effort to make this handbook clear, consistent and easy to read, we have used “he” throughout the odd- numbered chapters and “she” throughout the even-numbered chapters. The copy is not intended to be sexist. Business Letters for Busy People Published by National Press Publications, Inc. Copyright 2002 National Press Publications, Inc. A Division of Rockhurst University Continuing Education Center, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from National Press Publications. Printed in the United States of America 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 ISBN #1-55852-300-6 Contents | Index | Search Back
 Business Letters for Busy People Contents | Index | Search Back
 About Rockhurst University Continuing Education Center, Inc. Rockhurst University Continuing Education Center, Inc. is committed to providing lifelong learning opportunities through the integration of innovative education and training. National Seminars Group, a division of Rockhurst University Continuing Education Center, Inc., has its finger on the pulse of America’s business community. We’ve trained more than 2 million people in every imaginable occupation to be more productive and advance their careers. Along the way, we’ve learned a few things — what it takes to be successful … how to build the skills to make it happen … and how to translate learning into results. Millions of people from thousands of companies around the world turn to National Seminars for training solutions. National Press Publications is our product and publishing division. We offer a complete line of the finest self-study and continuous-learning resources available anywhere. These products present our industry-acclaimed curriculum and training expertise in a concise, action-oriented format you can put to work right away. Packed with real-world strategies and hands-on techniques, these resources are guaranteed to help you meet the career and personal challenges you face every day. Contents | Index | Search Back
 Business Letters for Busy People Contents | Index | Search Back
 Legend Symbol Guide ✔ Checklists that will help you identify important issues for future application. Contents | Index | Search Back
 Business Letters for Busy People Table of Contents Contents | Index | Search Back
1  Table of Contents Introduction................................................................................................................xi 1 Writing From Scratch..........................................................................................1 Four Considerations of a Business Letter.............................................................2 Organization...........................................................................................................3 The Seven "C’s" of Style.......................................................................................6 In a Nutshell..........................................................................................................8 2 Parts of a Business Letter....................................................................................9 Letterhead............................................................................................................10 Date.......................................................................................................................10 File Number.........................................................................................................10 Confidential.........................................................................................................10 Inside Address......................................................................................................10 Attention Line......................................................................................................11 Salutation.............................................................................................................11 Subject Line.........................................................................................................12 Body of the Letter................................................................................................12 Complimentary Close..........................................................................................12 Signature..............................................................................................................13 Additional Information........................................................................................13 Postscript..............................................................................................................13 Mailing Instructions.............................................................................................13 3 Format of a Business Letter..............................................................................15 Block....................................................................................................................17 Modified Block....................................................................................................18 Modified Semi-Block..........................................................................................19 Simplified............................................................................................................20 Hanging Indented................................................................................................21 Memo...................................................................................................................22 4 Collection Letters................................................................................................23 Step-by-Step Guide..............................................................................................24 Notification..........................................................................................................25 Reminder..............................................................................................................26 Inquiry..................................................................................................................27 Urgency................................................................................................................28 Final Notice/Ultimatum.......................................................................................29 Insufficient Funds................................................................................................30 Thank You for Payment.......................................................................................31 Contents | Index | Search Back
1  Business Letters for Busy People Table of Contents Contents | Index | Search Back
2  Lost Payment/Apology........................................................................................32 Checklist..............................................................................................................33 5 Sales and Promotional Letters...........................................................................35 Step-by-Step Guide..............................................................................................36 Request for Appointment.....................................................................................37 Prospective Lead..................................................................................................38 Sales Letter to Client...........................................................................................39 Sales Letter to Current Client..............................................................................40 Letter of Introduction..........................................................................................41 Follow-Up on Letter Sent....................................................................................42 Delinquent Reply.................................................................................................43 Extremely Delinquent Reply...............................................................................44 Requesting Customer’s Assistance......................................................................45 Sales Follow-Up..................................................................................................46 Confirming Sales Order.......................................................................................47 Reminder That a Sale Is About to End................................................................49 Announcing a Sales Campaign, Promotion or Incentive Program.....................50 Announcing a Sales Campaign to Preferred Customers.....................................51 Announcing New Products to a Select Group of Customers..............................52 Announcing a Price Increase...............................................................................53 Transmittal With Instructions..............................................................................54 Transmittal With Request....................................................................................55 Transmittal With Suggestion...............................................................................56 Transmittal With Information..............................................................................57 Transmittals With Sales Information...................................................................58 Transmittal to Current Client...............................................................................60 Checklist..............................................................................................................61 6 Goodwill Letters..................................................................................................63 Step-by-Step Guide..............................................................................................64 Recognizing a Suggestion...................................................................................65 Appreciation........................................................................................................66 Official Anniversary............................................................................................67 Speech..................................................................................................................68 Invitation — Formal............................................................................................69 Invitation — Informal..........................................................................................70 Congratulations....................................................................................................71 Thanks for Good Work: Outside Vendor.............................................................74 Acknowledging Accomplishments......................................................................75 Follow-Up After a Sale........................................................................................79 Explaining Policy and Position...........................................................................80 Contents | Index | Search Back
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3  Encouragement....................................................................................................81 Announcing New Fringe Benefits.......................................................................82 Adjustment...........................................................................................................83 Checklist..............................................................................................................84 7 Community Activities Letters............................................................................85 Step-by-Step Guide..............................................................................................86 Solicitation of Funds............................................................................................87 Acknowledgment and Request for Funds...........................................................89 Appreciation and Fund-Raising Event................................................................90 Acknowledgment of Contribution.......................................................................91 Acknowledgment of Accomplishment................................................................92 Thank You............................................................................................................93 Grant Request......................................................................................................94 Invitation to Serve...............................................................................................95 Membership Invitation........................................................................................96 Refusal of a Request............................................................................................97 Expression of Appreciation.................................................................................98 Appointment to Office.........................................................................................99 Appointment to a Committee............................................................................100 Compliment.......................................................................................................101 Invitation to Speak.............................................................................................102 Complimenting a Speaker.................................................................................103 Letter to Legislator Showing Support...............................................................104 Letter to Legislator Showing Concern..............................................................105 Checklist............................................................................................................106 8 Personal Business Letters................................................................................107 Step-by-Step Guide............................................................................................108 Congratulations..................................................................................................109 Congratulations — Social..................................................................................110 Birthday Wishes.................................................................................................111 Holiday Greetings..............................................................................................112 Birth of a Child..................................................................................................113 Marriage.............................................................................................................114 Illness — Hospital.............................................................................................115 Thank You..........................................................................................................116 Apology.............................................................................................................117 Inquiry................................................................................................................118 Request...............................................................................................................119 Refusal...............................................................................................................120 Checklist............................................................................................................121 Contents | Index | Search Back
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4  9 Letters of Condolence.......................................................................................123 Step-by-Step Guide............................................................................................124 On the Death of a Business Associate...............................................................125 On the Death of a Mother..................................................................................126 On the Death of a Father...................................................................................127 On the Death of a Wife......................................................................................128 On the Death of a Husband...............................................................................129 On the Death of a Child....................................................................................130 On the Death of a Brother.................................................................................131 On the Death of a Sister....................................................................................132 Checklist............................................................................................................133 10 Letters About Employment Changes..............................................................135 Step-by-Step Guide............................................................................................137 Reference Request.............................................................................................138 Waiver of Confidentiality..................................................................................139 Request for Meeting..........................................................................................140 Job Hunter Seeking an Interview......................................................................141 Interview Confirmation.....................................................................................142 Thanks for Interview.........................................................................................143 Unsolicited Application.....................................................................................144 Cover Letters for Resumés................................................................................145 Requesting Appointment...................................................................................147 Reply to Unsolicited Application......................................................................148 Job Application..................................................................................................149 Job Hunter Seeking Job With Contact..............................................................150 Solicited Application.........................................................................................151 Job Acceptance..................................................................................................152 Job Rejection.....................................................................................................153 Not Accepting Possible Job Offer.....................................................................154 Positive Resignation..........................................................................................155 Negative Resignation.........................................................................................156 Response to Job Offer: Covers Terms...............................................................157 Request for Employment Reference..................................................................158 Reference for Former Employee.......................................................................159 Letters of Recommendation..............................................................................160 Character Reference..........................................................................................162 Letter of Introduction........................................................................................163 Progress Report..................................................................................................164 Rejection of Application....................................................................................165 Responses to Rejected Job Application.............................................................166 Follow-Up After Not Getting the Job.................................................................167 Contents | Index | Search Back
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5  Rejection of an In-House Job Applicant...........................................................168 Rejection of an Unsolicited Application...........................................................169 Rejection of a Solicited Application..................................................................170 Invitation for an Interview.................................................................................171 Job Offers...........................................................................................................172 New Employee..................................................................................................175 Promotion — Congratulations...........................................................................176 Announcing a Promotion — Personal...............................................................177 Announcing a Promotion — Internal................................................................178 Acceptance of Resignation................................................................................179 Recommending a Raise.....................................................................................180 Rejection of Unsolicited Business.....................................................................181 Request for Material..........................................................................................182 Request for Information....................................................................................183 Confirmation to Speaker....................................................................................184 Giving Information............................................................................................185 Discontinuing Business Relationships..............................................................186 Rejecting a Request...........................................................................................188 Introducing a New Employee............................................................................189 Checklist............................................................................................................190 11 Customer Relations Letters.............................................................................191 Step-by-Step Guide............................................................................................192 General Appreciation.........................................................................................193 Acknowledging a Complaint.............................................................................194 Following Up on a Complaint...........................................................................195 Regaining a Customer’s Confidence.................................................................196 Acknowledging a Complaint — Disclaiming Responsibility...........................197 Acknowledging a Complaint — Explaining a Misunderstanding....................198 Correcting an Error............................................................................................199 General Apology................................................................................................200 Acknowledging an Order — Back Order..........................................................201 Acknowledging an Order — Explaining Shipment Procedures.......................202 Apologizing for an Employee’s Action.............................................................203 Notifying Customers of a Move........................................................................204 Holiday Greetings..............................................................................................205 Notification of Complaints................................................................................206 Checklist............................................................................................................212 12 Media Letters....................................................................................................213 Step-by-Step Guide............................................................................................214 Media Event Letter — Sales Campaign Kickoff..............................................215 Contents | Index | Search Back
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6  Media Event Letter — Recently Published Book.............................................216 Media Event Letter — Anniversary..................................................................217 Press Release — Anniversary............................................................................218 Press Release — Speaking Engagement...........................................................219 Press Release — Promotion..............................................................................220 Press Release — New Employee......................................................................221 Response to Editorial — Positive......................................................................222 Response to Editorial — Negative....................................................................223 Letter Asking to Make a Speech.......................................................................224 Letter Asking for a Correction..........................................................................225 Checklist............................................................................................................226 13 Electronic Mail..................................................................................................227 Step-by-Step Guide............................................................................................228 Announcement of Meeting................................................................................230 Change in Client Status Announcement............................................................231 Request for Assistance.......................................................................................232 Request for Materials Ordered..........................................................................233 Project Offer......................................................................................................234 Follow-Up on Project........................................................................................235 Compliment to Employee for Work..................................................................236 Checklist............................................................................................................237 14 Postcard Correspondence................................................................................239 Step-by-Step Guide............................................................................................240 Seasonal Promotion...........................................................................................241 Acknowledging a Customer for a Special Occasion.........................................242 Invitation............................................................................................................243 Reminder............................................................................................................244 Checklist............................................................................................................245 Appendix..................................................................................................................247 Professional Ranks and Titles............................................................................248 Federal, State and Local Government Officials................................................249 Military Ranks...................................................................................................252 Military Abbreviations.......................................................................................254 Diplomats...........................................................................................................255 British Nobility..................................................................................................256 Clerical and Religious Orders...........................................................................258 College and University Officials.......................................................................261 Index.........................................................................................................................263 Contents | Index | Search Back
6  Business Letters for Busy People Introduction Contents | Index | Search Back
xi  I NTRODUCTION Business Letters for Busy People is designed to be used, not just read. You not only get the easy-to-read impact of chapter-by- chapter “how to” information, but each section is also filled with checklists, ready-to-use letters and guidelines to help you do your job better, more effectively, more easily — right now! It’s literally a user’s manual for the business professional. Business Letters for Busy People is packed with the most concrete information, useful techniques and practical tips possible in the smallest space. So you don’t have to wade through endless pages of fluff searching for that elusive kernel of wisdom. Business Letters for Busy People gives you concise, easy-to- use learning resources that get results. Check out the format and don’t be surprised if you find yourself leafing through the pages for tidbits of fact and business trivia. The margins deliberately focus your attention, acting like a thumbnail index. And, each chapter is tabbed on the margins so you can turn right to the chapter you need to see. Read the chapters that are immediately important to you. Although there is a logic and order to the design of the book, you can read it in the order that best suits you. Each chapter stands alone. Contents | Index | Search Back
xi  Business Letters for Busy People Introduction Contents | Index | Search Back
xii  We know you’ll find this book helpful. Read it, copy it and act on its advice. Reading a good book awakens our minds, but too often never gets carried into action; we close the book unchanged. With this book, your reading becomes action — and action is the key to success. Gary Weinberg Vice President National Press Publications Contents | Index | Search Back
xii  Business Letters for Busy People Writing From Scratch Contents | Index | Search Back
1  1 C HAPTER 1 Writing From Scratch You are busy no matter what your position. Since you are busy, you want to use your time as effectively as possible. The In a study of 800 business letter takes time but can be written more quickly if you letters written by the follow a few basic principles. (If you’re in a hurry, skip to top chief executive Chapters 4–13 for samples of the kinds of letters you need to officers in the U.S., write.) This chapter assumes you have a little free time to brush up all 800 letters were on business letter writing. found to be short, Keep in mind these three points when you write a letter: clear and personal. 1. Business letters serve one purpose. By the time these 2. Business letters are expensive. people became CEOs, they had learned 3. Business letters serve as a record. never to send out a Business letters serve one purpose: They communicate letter that didn’t information. Countless hours are spent, and too many letters are reflect those three sent that say little or nothing. That’s a waste of time for the sender basic principles of and the receiver. Also, when the wages of the writer and the typist good writing. — along with the prorated cost of equipment and postage — are figured in, business letters are expensive. It is important that they be cost-effective. Why write a business letter? Because business letters serve as a record. Letters are long-lasting, tangible evidence of information you communicate to others. Contents | Index | Search Back
1  Business Letters for Busy People Writing From Scratch Contents | Index | Search Back
2  1 Four Considerations of a Business Letter The four areas you must take into consideration for each business letter are listed below. If you do not consider each one of them, your letter will be ineffective. 1. Subject 2. Audience 3. Purpose 4. Style/Organization Subject Every piece of writing — from the business letter to the novel — revolves around a subject. Luckily, in the business world the subject is usually specific. Quite often it is supplied for you by someone else, such as a boss or colleague, or demanded by a situation such as hiring or congratulating an employee. It’s a fact: The more specific your subject, the easier it is to write your letter. For example, let’s say that you need to request information about an order that did not arrive when it should have. If you are in charge of the account, writing the letter is easy. If you are not in charge of the account, it is harder for you to write the letter than it is for the person who knows all the particulars. Regardless of the situation, stick to one or two subjects in your letter. Including more than two subjects clouds your message. Write another letter if you have more than two subjects. Audience This area is tricky because you may not know your audience. If you do, you can tailor your letter to that audience. Many times, however, your audience is larger than you expect. Your letter may be addressed to Terry Smith but may be read by several other people in Terry’s firm to receive the action you wish. If you are unsure of your audience, assume they are educated, reasonable people until you find out otherwise. Don’t assume they have as much knowledge of the subject of your letter as you do, or you may overgeneralize or forget to include important details. Contents | Index | Search Back
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3  1 Purpose Many letters are sent with a specific subject and audience in The “So What?” mind but are not clear in their purpose. Test When you have finished a draft of Know why you are sending the letter. Is the letter to inform? your letter, read each Is it to request information? Is it to offer congratulations? paragraph and ask Condolences? Is it to get the recipient to act on a request? All of yourself, “So what?” these are very different purposes. You have probably received a in the same way a letter that, after reading it, left you confused because you didn’t new reader might. If know exactly what it said. The purpose was not clear. you can’t answer that Style/Organization from the paragraph, consider leaving it The first three areas dictate the content, direction and out. emphasis of the letter. 1. Know WHAT you’re writing about — SUBJECT. 2. Know WHO you’re writing for — AUDIENCE. 3. Know WHY you’re writing — PURPOSE. Now you are ready to be concerned with HOW you are going to write the letter. The first three areas can be determined in a mat- ter of minutes if you are familiar with the ideas that need to be communicated. The fourth area — style and organization — takes more time. (If you’re pressed for time, refer to the sample letters in Chapters 4-13.) Organization Most of this book is devoted to the way different types of let- ters are organized. However, the basic organization for the body of a business letter follows. Part 1 of Body State your purpose. Part 2 of Body Explain what you want to happen or “Brevity is the soul of explain the information you have. wit.” Part 3 of Body Request a dated action, conclude or — William Shakespeare thank the reader for his response. Notice that these are parts or sections rather than paragraphs. In some cases, particularly Part 2, the parts may consist of more than one paragraph. Let’s take a look at each of these parts. Contents | Index | Search Back
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4  1 Part 1 of the Body Get right to the point in the first sentence of the letter. When you read a novel, you expect to have background information before the story ever starts. When you read a business letter, you expect to be told immediately what will happen. Remember, your reader doesn’t have any more time to wade through a long letter than you do. This part is usually a short paragraph. Anything too long will cause the reader to lose patience. Part 2 of the Body Tell ’em what you’re This is the bread and butter of the letter. It explains the going to say, say it, information you are giving, or it explains what you want the and tell ’em what you recipient to do. It doesn’t need to be elaborate, but it does need said. to include all of the information the recipient needs. If you have a lot of information, break it into short paragraphs, make a list or refer to an attachment. Underlining essential information is one way to highlight key points for your reader. Your letter should be organized to help the recipient understand what to know or what to do. Part 3 of the Body This, like the first part, is usually a short paragraph. In writing classes, it’s called the clincher — not a bad way to remember its function. Depending on the purpose of your letter, it will do one of three things. 1. Conclude. In an informational letter, this allows you to State your purpose. point out the most important item or draw all your key points into one statement. Explain what you want to happen 2. Request action. In letters that require a response, or explain the infor- such as collection letters, you define the action you want the mation you have. recipient to take. In this part, you tell the reader what to do and when to do it. Being vague gets vague results. Be specific. Request a dated action, conclude, 3. Thank the reader. In some letters, this part is simply a thank the reader. thank you for the recipient’s attention, response or concern. Contents | Index | Search Back
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5  1 In many ways, the method of writing a business letter is like the rule of thumb for giving a speech: Tell them what you’re going to talk about. Talk about it. Then tell them what you talked about. The following sample letter shows how each of the three parts work. Click here to use this template Capital Supplies 8995 Camden Rd. Williamsburg, WI 63094 October 2, 20XX Lance Smith, Director Terrance Trucking P.O. Box 4440 Houston, TX 34598-4440 Dear Mr. Smith: Thank you for your conscientious service. All 15 of your last shipments have State Your Purpose arrived undamaged. We have never contracted with a supplier with as fine a record as yours. We appreciate the extra effort it takes to ship our order intact and on time. Ted McCracken and Bob Smiley have delivered these shipments to our loading dock supervisor. I have attached copies of logs for your review. Note that the Explain What You unloading time is approximately half of that from other shippers for a similar load. Want to Happen or Ted and Bob frequently help our crew unload the crates. This additional service Explain the always comes with an exchange of jokes. Our crew collects laughs to compete Information You Have with your drivers! Doing business with your organization is a pleasure. You save us money by Request a Dated eliminating shipping waste and time by providing efficient drivers. Please accept Action, Conclude, the enclosed certificates of merit to Terrance Trucking, Ted and Bob, with our Thank the Reader appreciation. We are confident in referring our customers and vendors to Terrance Trucking for their shipping needs. Sincerely, Cala Reginald CLR:mjk Enc. (10) Contents | Index | Search Back
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6  1 Style is how you write the letter. Business letters used to be written in what might be called “businessese,” a formal, stiff language. That is no longer true. The predominant style is matter- of-fact and conversational. Gone are such phrases as “the aforementioned” and “due to the fact that.” Our high-tech, impersonal society requires business professionals to be more personable in their written communication in order to be more effective. The Seven “C’s” of Style will help you become more effective. The Seven “C’s” of Style 1. Conversational. Write the way you speak. Get rid of stilted phrases. Why say “due to the fact that” when you “Writing, when can say “because”? Would you normally say “the afore- properly managed, is mentioned information”? Why not “the information” or, if but a different name you need to refer to a point, “the previous information”? for conversation.” 2. Clarity. The goal of clarity is that the reader understands — Laurence Sterne precisely what you are saying. The language of your let- ter should be adapted to the recipient. This means that you write in a matter-of-fact, conversational tone. Use specific examples the reader can relate to. Don’t assume that your reader understands the jargon of your trade. Remember, most letters will be read by people other than the recipient of the letter. These people may be unfamiliar with the technical language or jargon you use. Clarity also means organizing your letter so each paragraph deals with only one main idea and presenting your ideas in a logical order. Your letter should not be a collection of random ideas. It should be single-minded in its purpose. 3. Concise. A concise letter eliminates all unnecessary words. Why use four words, “in as much as,” when you can use one word, “because”? This is not to say that you can’t write long letters, but the longer the letter, the more ineffective it becomes. It is better to write a short letter with attachments than a long, detailed one. Short letters are read and remembered; long letters are skimmed and filed. Contents | Index | Search Back
6  Business Letters for Busy People Writing From Scratch Contents | Index | Search Back
7  1 4. Complete. Make sure you have included all the information the reader needs to know. (Don’t include “Proper words in details that are interesting but not relevant.) The biggest proper places make problem with leaving out information is that the reader the true definition of has to make assumptions. For example, don’t say, style.” “When we last spoke about the situation,” when you can — Jonathan Swift say, “When we spoke on June 8 about hiring a new administrative assistant.” Remember that the reader can’t read your mind. The reader can only guess at what you left out. 5. Concrete. Use specific terms that cannot be misunderstood. Don’t say, “The large order that we requested has not arrived.” Say, “The order for 10,000 basins that we requested on May 3, 20XX, has not arrived as of June 20.” Identify names and numbers. Write about what people can count or do. Include what people can see, touch, smell, taste or hear. In other words, make your language tangible. Make it concrete. 6. Constructive. Use words and phrases that set a positive tone. Constructive words are like smiling when you greet someone. They leave a good impression. Words such as “failure,” “you neglected” and “error” tend to distance the recipient from the writer. Words such as “agreeable,” “proud” and “success” help create a positive tone. 7. Correct. The last step in writing any business letter is to proofread it. You automatically check your image in a mirror before going out or meeting someone. The letter you send is your image on paper. If it is riddled with spelling, grammatical and typographical errors, it will detract from what you are trying to get across. The reaction will be, “He can’t spell,” or “She doesn’t know how to type.” If you have a secretary, don’t assume your secretary knows how to spell or punctuate. Luckily, most do, but proof your own letters. Why? Because it is your name that is signed at the bottom of the page, not your secre- tary’s. You will be the one who looks bad. Contents | Index | Search Back
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8  1 In a Nutshell Writing a business letter need not be difficult as long as you remember that you are communicating with another business person just like yourself. If you incorporate Subject, Audience, Purpose and Style/Organization into your correspondence, you will be on the road to better business letter writing. Contents | Index | Search Back
8  Business Letters for Busy People Parts of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
9  2 C HAPTER 2 Parts of a Business Letter There are many parts to the business letter — some required, some optional. This chapter will review those parts and their order. The parts of the business letter follow: 1. Letterhead or Heading 2. Date 3. File Number (optional) 4. Confidential (optional) 5. Inside Address 6. Attention Line (optional) 7. Salutation (optional) 8. Subject Line (optional) 9. Body of the Letter 10. Complimentary Close (optional) 11. Signature 12. Added Information (optional) 13. Postscript (optional) 14. Mailing Instructions (optional) Contents | Index | Search Back
9  Business Letters for Busy People Parts of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
10  2 Letterhead Most business letters originating from a firm are written on the firm’s letterhead. If you are writing a personal business letter or your firm does not use letterhead, then you need to include your firm’s address in the heading (see Chapter 3 for the various formats). Date When you are using a heading instead of letterhead, place the date on the first line and the address on the subsequent lines as follows: September 9, 20XX The standard date- line in the U.S. is 359 Longview Road month/day/year: Mt. Vernon, IL 65676 (March 15, 20XX). This should be the date the letter is written (see Chapter 3 for In Europe, however, placement in the various formats). Be sure to write out the month the most widely used and to include both the date and year for adequate reference. format is day/month/year: File Number (15 March 20XX). On occasion, you may wish to include the file number of the project, case or order that the letter refers to. The file number should be physically separated from the date by two spaces and from the part that follows (Confidential or Inside Address) by two spaces. Confidential Use this word when the person to whom the letter is addressed is the only one who should read the letter. Physically separate the word from the rest of the letter by two lines. To assure confidentiality, include the word “Confidential” on the envelope. Inside Address This should include the name of the person you are writing, the person’s title (if available), the name of the firm and the firm’s address. Contents | Index | Search Back
10  Business Letters for Busy People Parts of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
11  2 Attention Line This is used when you do not know the name of the person you are writing and the letter is addressed to the firm. For exam- ple, the attention line may say, “Attention: Head of Accounting.” It may also be used when you know the name of the person you are writing but are unsure of the title. The attention line may say, “Attention: Customer Service,” thus indicating to the person receiving the letter that the letter also needs to be routed to the customer service department. Another way of doing this is to use the attention line and send copies of the letter to the appropriate department. Salutation The salutation is used in all formats (see Chapter 3) except the People don’t usually Simplified Letter and the Memo. The following are salutations get upset if you don’t used in American business letters: address them with Dear Sir: the proper salutation, but they notice and Dear Madam: (may be followed by title, such as Dear appreciate it when Madam Chairperson:) you do. Gentlemen: Ladies: Dear Mr. Bryan: Dear Ms. Gray: Ladies and Gentlemen: Dear Personnel Director: (a gender-free title) To Whom It May Concern: or TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: (use this form as a last resort) Caution: You must determine the appropriate choice, given your reader and the situation. If you are uncertain about your reader’s gender, avoid assuming gender in the salutation. Use your reader’s name whenever you know it. Researchers discovered that people are more likely to read a letter with their names in the salutation. Contents | Index | Search Back
11  Business Letters for Busy People Parts of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
12  2 One of the problems you may run into is writing to a person with a name that is not gender specific; for example, the name Terry. The simplest solution in the salutation is to say, “Dear Terry Lucas.” If you are addressing a group of people in general, such as the shipping department, do not assume they are all male. The old “Gentlemen:” is not acceptable. “Shipping Agents:” is preferred. The way around having to use a salutation when you are unsure of whom you are writing is to use the Simplified Letter (see Chapter 3). Subject Line The subject line is most commonly used in the Simplified Letter. It announces the subject of the letter and provides a summary of your intent. Body of the Letter This is where you make requests, provide information or Unless you’re aiming reasons or reply to someone. It is the main part of the business for the Nobel prize, letter (see Chapter 3 for the various body formats). you shouldn’t worry about your writing talent. Writing good Complimentary Close business documents This varies in formality and is found in all business letters is a craft, not an art. with the exception of the Simplified Letter and the Memo (see It requires skill, not Chapter 3 for its placement). The following complimentary closes talent, and you can are in order of decreasing formality: learn skills. Very truly yours, Respectfully, Sincerely yours, Cordially, Sincerely, The most appropriate, in general situations, is the last. Contents | Index | Search Back
12  Business Letters for Busy People Parts of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
13  2 Signature There should be four lines between the complimentary close (or the body in the Simplified Letter) and your typed name so there is room for your signature. Additional Information If needed, this consists of the sender’s initials in capital letters followed by a colon, followed by the typist’s initials in small letters. You may also find the abbreviations “Enc.” for enclosure and “cc:” or “xc:” for copies sent, followed by names of persons receiving the copies. Postscript The “P.S.” highlights additional information that might have been placed in the letter but for some reason was not. Often used in sales, promotional or personal letters, the postscript can emphasize a request for action or consideration. It is often the first thing the recipient reads. Use it to entice or motivate your reader. Postscripts are especially effective in sales or form letters. Mailing Instructions Use these to give the reader deadlines or pertinent information on mailing a reply. As you look through the major formats in Chapter 3, it’s obvious that many of the parts listed above are not necessarily used in routine business correspondence. However, it helps to be aware of all of them in case you need to use any of them. Contents | Index | Search Back
13  Business Letters for Busy People Format of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
15  C HAPTER 3 Format of a Business Letter 3 Business letter formats have changed over the years. If you went to school prior to the 1970s, you probably learned one basic form of business letter now called the Modified Semi-Block. It was the bane of every beginning typist because of its strict rules concerning spacing. Luckily, the movement in business has been to simplify and provide choices. Now you have a choice of six different forms, some extremely simple, others more complex. This chapter will review the various forms. The six forms of business letters most commonly used are: Block Simplified Modified Block Hanging Indented Modified Semi-Block Memo It is likely that your organization may prefer one form over another. In the following explanations, the assumption is that you will be using letterhead stationery. If you are writing a personal business letter without letterhead, place your address one line above or below the date as in the following examples: August 3, 20XX 2578 Tarrymore Lane or Chicago, IL 66557-1234 2578 Tarrymore Lane Chicago, IL 66557-1234 August 3, 20XX Contents | Index | Search Back
15  Business Letters for Busy People Format of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
16  The state in the sender’s address and the inside address may 3 be written out in a formal letter or abbreviated with the two-letter postal service code in an informal letter. As the postal service’s recommendation to use the new format for envelope addresses gains momentum, we will see another change in the business letter: The inside address may match the envelope address to eliminate the need for two separate data bases for address styles. Both can look like this: 2578 TARRYMORE LANE CHICAGO IL 66557-1234 All letters are capitalized, and no line punctuation is used, which allows the electronic scanners to sort the mail more quickly. The nine-digit ZIP code is also gaining popularity to process and The standard date- deliver mail more quickly. line in the U.S. is month/day/year: (March 15, 20XX). In Europe, however, the most widely used format is day/month/year: (15 March 20XX). Contents | Index | Search Back
16  Business Letters for Busy People Format of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
17  Block 3 The Block format is by far the simplest. Every part of the let- ter starts at the left margin, with spaces between each part. It has a professional look to it. The order for the parts of the letter are date, file number, inside address, attention line, salutation, subject line, body, complimentary close, signature, typed name and additional Click here to use information. this template Italics Unlimited Letterhead 231 W. 40th Street Camden, NJ 08618 (623) 555-2678 August 10, 20XX Date (2-3 spaces) File Number XXX Inside Address Terry Lancaster (2-3 spaces) Capital Supply 657 Minden Ct. Des Moines, Iowa 54687 Attention Line Attention: President of Capital Supply (2-3 spaces) Dear Mr. Lancaster: Salutation (2-3 spaces) Subject: XXXXXXXX Subject Line XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Body XXXXXXXXXXXX (2 spaces between paragraphs) XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXX Sincerely, Complimentary Close (4 spaces for Signature signature) Signature Joan McAllister Typed Name JFM:eer (2-3 spaces) Additional P.S. XXXXXXXXX Information Postscript XXXXXXXXX Mailing Instructions Contents | Index | Search Back
17  Business Letters for Busy People Format of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
18  Modified Block 3 Like the Block, the Modified Block has the advantage of separating paragraphs so that each one stands out. The spacing between sections remains the same as in the Block. The date, signature and closing are placed to the right, thus allowing them to stand out. The complimentary close and the signature are aligned and placed near the center of the letter, two spaces below the last Click here to use paragraph. this template Italics Unlimited Letterhead 231 W. 40th Street Camden, NJ 08618 (623) 555-2678 August 10, 20XX Date (right of center) Terry Lancaster Inside Address Capital Supply (left margin) 657 Minden Ct. Des Moines, Iowa 54687 Dear Mr. Lancaster: Salutation (2-3 spaces) XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Body (left margin with 2 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX spaces between XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX paragraphs) XXXXXXXXXXXXX Sincerely, Complimentary Close (right of center) Signature Signature (right of center) Joan McAllister Typed Name Additional JFM:eer Information (left margin) Contents | Index | Search Back
18  Business Letters for Busy People Format of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
19  Modified Semi-Block 3 You will recognize the Modified Semi-Block as the format most commonly taught as “the business letter.” It is the same as the Modified Block except that the paragraphs are indented five spaces. All spacing remains the same. Click here to use this template Italics Unlimited Letterhead 231 W. 40th Street Camden, NJ 08618 (623) 555-2678 Date August 10, 20XX (right of center) Terry Lancaster Inside Address Capital Supply (left margin) 657 Minden Ct. Des Moines, Iowa 54687 Salutation Dear Mr. Lancaster: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Body XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX (indent paragraphs XXXXXXXXXXXXXX 5 spaces and separate paragraphs XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX with 2 spaces) XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXX Complimentary Sincerely, Close (right of center) Signature Signature (right of center) Joan McAllister Typed Name (right of center) JFM:eer Additional Information (left margin) Contents | Index | Search Back
19  Business Letters for Busy People Format of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
20  Simplified 3 This is useful when you do not know the title of the person you are writing to or when you are writing to a company, government agency or organization. It eliminates the courtesy titles (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Dr.), the salutations and the complimentary close. The focus of the letter is on the body and what is to be said. Click here to use The spacing is the same as the block format. this template Italics Unlimited Letterhead 231 W. 40th Street Camden, NJ 08618 (623) 555-2678 August 10, 20XX Date Terry Lancaster Inside Address Capital Supply 657 Minden Ct. Des Moines, Iowa 54687 Subject of Letter SUBJECT: PRINTING SUPPLIES (highlight this summary line with XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX capitalization, bold XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX face or underlining) XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Body XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX (2 spaces between XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX paragraphs) XXXXXXXXXXXXXX Signature Signature Typed Name Joan McAllister Additional Information JFM:eer Contents | Index | Search Back
20  Business Letters for Busy People Format of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
21  Hanging Indented 3 On occasion you will see this form but, for all practical purposes, it is seldom used. Its main advantage is that it calls attention to the body and each of the paragraphs. Spacing between Click here to use the lines and sections is the same as in previous examples. this template Italics Unlimited Letterhead 231 W. 40th Street Camden, NJ 08618 (623) 555-2678 Date (right of center) August 10, 20XX Terry Lancaster Inside Address Capital Supply (2-3 spaces) 657 Minden Ct. Des Moines, Iowa 54687 Salutation Dear Mr. Lancaster: Body XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX (indent second and XXXXXX subsequent lines in each paragraph) XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Sincerely, Complimentary Close (right of center) Signature Signature (right of center) Joan McAllister Typed Name (right of center) JFM:eer Additional Information (left margin) Contents | Index | Search Back
21  Business Letters for Busy People Format of a Business Letter Contents | Index | Search Back
22  Memo 3 A sixth form of letter is the Memo. Though used primarily as an interoffice communication, it is occasionally used as a business letter format. The top of the Memo indicates the date, the name(s) of the recipient(s), the name(s) of the sender(s) and the subject. The abbreviation “RE” is sometimes used instead of “Subject.” This information is placed at the left margin. The body of the Memo is in block form. A signature and additional information are optional. The signature is often placed near the center with the Click here to use additional information at the left margin. this template MEMORANDUM Memo Information (2-3 spaces) Date: August 10, 20XX To: Terry Lancaster From: Joan McAllister Subject: Printing Supplies Body XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX (1 space between XXXX lines, XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 2 spaces between XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX paragraphs) XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXX Signature Signature (2-3 spaces) Joan McAllister Typed Name JFM:eer Additional Information cc: Ted Kapstein, Marsha Little (left margin) Contents | Index | Search Back
22  Business Letters for Busy People Collection Letters Contents | Index | Search Back
23  C HAPTER 4 Collection Letters 4 This chapter has sample collection letters you may have to write. The types of collection letters included are: Notification Reminder Inquiry Urgency Final Notice/Ultimatum Insufficient Funds Thank You for Payment Lost Payment/Apology In this section, at the side of the page, you will find a brief explanation of each part of the letter. The first letter identifies each section of the letter. Subsequent letters identify only changes to the basic format. Contents | Index | Search Back
23  Business Letters for Busy People Collection Letters Contents | Index | Search Back
24  Step-by-Step Guide The purpose of the collection letter is to get the customer to pay an overdue bill. 4 Step 1: Check the spelling of the recipient’s name. Use a gender-specific courtesy title only if you are certain of the recipient’s gender. There is nothing more embarrassing or irritating than getting a collection letter, except getting one that is addressed improper- ly. Step 2: The first part of the letter should state the concern and the situation (date purchased, amount owed and date due). Step 3: The next part of the letter should indicate the dead- line for paying the bill and any penalties that may result. You may also wish to indicate your company’s policy concerning late payments, grace periods, penalties or alternative payment plans. Step 4: The third part of the letter should indicate the conse- quences of not paying the bill. Initially, these may be penalties but, as the bill becomes more delinquent, it may include warnings of ruined credit ratings or involvement of a collection agency. Step 5: The final part of the letter should encourage the recipient to send full payment or contact you to arrange a payment schedule. End with good will and a positive attitude that this situation will be resolved satisfactorily. Note: At the end of this chapter is a checklist to use when you write collection letters. Contents | Index | Search Back
24  Business Letters for Busy People Collection Letters Contents | Index | Search Back
25  Notification This letter is to notify the recipient that the bill is overdue. Click here to use 4 this template Western Wear Letterhead 2212 Boot Hill Rd. Cheyenne, WY 82001 Date (2-3 spaces) July 5, 20XX Inside Address Ted Wilson (2-3 spaces) 515 Ramey Ct. Laramie, WY 82063 Dear Mr. Wilson: Salutation Thank you for shopping with us. You are a valued customer. We State the Concern appreciate your business and know that you want to keep your account current with us. On May 15, 20XX, you purchased merchandise worth $319.04 State the Situation from our store in Laramie. Your payment of $100 is now overdue. In the credit agreement you signed, you agreed to pay off Indicate Deadline your bill in three payments. The first payment of $100 was due June 15, 20XX. Please send this amount now. Failure to pay on time may affect your ability to charge Indicate merchandise at our store. Thank you for your prompt attention. Consequences You may call me at 800-555-9875 if you have any questions or Indicate Contact concerns. Your continued patronage is important to us. Indicate Goodwill Sincerely, Complimentary Close Signature Signature Mary West Credit Manager Typed Name MJW:cjl Additional Writing Collection Letters Information Contents | Index | Search Back
25  Business Letters for Busy People Collection Letters Contents | Index | Search Back
26  Reminder This letter reminds the reader that the bill is overdue and the payment still hasn’t been received. Be careful to focus on 4 observable behaviors and to avoid assumptions. Saying, “We have not received payment,” is an observable behavior. Saying, “You Click here to use have not sent payment,” is an assumption. Stay positive. this template Western Wear 2212 Boot Hill Rd. Cheyenne, WY 82001 August 5, 20XX Ted Wilson 515 Ramey Ct. Laramie, WY 82063 Dear Mr. Wilson: We have not yet received your payments. This is to remind you that Remind Recipient of both your first and second payments of $100 are now overdue. This the Situation $200 plus the balance of $119.04 is due on August 15. In the credit agreement you signed, you agreed to pay off your bill Request Payment in three payments. The first payment of $100 was due June 15, and Indicate 20XX, the second payment of $100 was due July 15, 20XX, and Deadline the final payment of $119.04 is due August 15, 20XX. Please send the full amount in 10 days. Failure to pay on time will affect your ability to charge Indicate merchandise at our store. If you want to discuss your account, call Consequences, me at 800-555-9875. Perhaps we can arrange a more comfortable Alternative and payment plan. Contact Thank you for your immediate attention. Indicate Goodwill Sincerely, Signature Mary West Credit Man