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- 14,6
- A recent TV commercial informed viewers that the U.S. Post Office handles 300
- million pieces of mail every day! That's a lot of letters. Here are a few of
- the types of letters professionals have to write: (1) Letters of information,
- (2) Letters of transmittal for reports and proposals, (3) Announcements of new
- products, (4) Answers to inquiries. Years ago, letters were written in stiff,
- formal language. Now business communications are more personal. A more
- relaxed, conversational tone can add conviction and vigor to your letter.
- Formal style: "It is unfortunate that I was not available." Informal style:
- "I'm sorry I missed you the other day." Avoid jargon-filled sentences and
- wordy phrases; strive to be concise. Which do you think will get the best
- response? Example #1: "Return the [16!] data sheets for the consideration and
- recommendations of our engineering department, enabling us to quote you, if
- possible, on specific applications." Example #2: "We'll be glad to evaluate a
- 75-gallon sample of the material and get back to you with our recommendations."