How do you start off a business letter.
Dear ____:
http://www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/business.html
To start off a business letter, you typically follow a formal structure. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Date: Begin by typing the date on the top left or right corner of the page. Use a consistent format, such as "January 1, 2022" or "1st January 2022," depending on your country's conventions.
2. Your contact information: Skip a line or two below the date and provide your personal or company's contact information. Include your full name, job title, company name (if applicable), address, phone number, and email address. Format it like this:
Your Name
Your Job Title
Your Company Name (if applicable)
Your Address
Your Phone Number
Your Email Address
3. Recipient's contact information: Skip another line and write the recipient's contact information. Include their full name, job title, company name, address, phone number, and email address. Format it like this:
Recipient's Name
Recipient's Job Title
Company Name
Address
Phone Number
Email Address
4. Salutation: Skip another line after the recipient's contact information and start with a formal salutation. If you know the recipient's name, address them as "Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name" or "Dear First Name Last Name." If you don't have a specific name, use a general salutation such as "Dear Sir/Madam" or "To whom it may concern."
For example:
Dear Mr. Johnson,
5. Introduction: Start the body of the letter with an introduction that briefly states the purpose of your letter. You can mention the reason for writing, reference any previous communication or shared connection, or any other relevant information. Be concise and clear.
For example:
I am writing to inquire about...
6. Main content: After the introduction, write the main body of the letter, presenting your ideas, requests, or proposals in a well-structured manner. Use short paragraphs, bullet points, or numbered lists where appropriate to improve readability.
7. Closing: Once you have expressed your main points, conclude the letter with a polite closing. Common options include "Sincerely," "Best regards," or "Yours faithfully," followed by your full name and job title.
For example:
Sincerely,
Your Name
Your Job Title
Remember to leave enough space between the closing and your typed name to sign the letter if you are printing and sending a physical copy.
That's it! Following these steps will help you start off your business letter effectively and professionally.