The following is a sample business writing template that you are welcome to cut and paste for your own non-commercial use. (Use it within your business, but don't sell it.) If sent on company letterhead that includes contact information, the upper right "contact info" need not be included.
*******
Sender/Company Name
Address
City, ST 99999
Ph: 555-555-5555
E-mail: steve@mccardellwrite.com
October 1, 2006
Reader's Name
c/o Company Name
Address
Dear [Reader's Name]:
In the first short paragraph, briefly introduce your reason for writing the letter. Paragraphs should be single-spaced and should include one space between them.
In the next paragraph or two, explain how you are going to solve the person's problem or provide him with your proposition, or otherwise get to the meat of your message. Most business letters are only one page long, even with all the heading information above.
But if you need to write a longer letter, consider using BOLD HEADERS to help break up the text (making the letter easier to read) and helping the reader to find key points when going back through the message later on.
End with a thank you for the person's time and consideration of what you've said.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
Your Name
P.S. You don't need to include a P.S., but you can opt to if you want to draw someone's attention to a key point -- something that's likely to persuade them about your overall message. This is frequently used in direct mail, but isn't expected in most business letters. Still, you can consider it as a tool.
*******
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Steve McCardell is a professional business writer, business writing consultant, and speaker working from his site at www.mccardellwrite.com. His business was founded in 2001 to help businesses not only with better writing, but also with better guidance. Steve has counseled small business owners as well as CEOs and has written for most business applications. He takes a personal interest in the success of all his clients, openly sharing from his experience.
This article may be reproduced in print or online so long as the byline is included.
