From CBIA News, April 2002

Business letter writing mini-course

1. Use the active voice: “I misplaced your order” — not, “Your order has been misplaced.” 

2. Cut jargon and formalities: “Here is” — not, “Enclosed herein.” 

3. Write with a “you” attitude: “You told us” — not, “Our customer research told us.” 

4. Talk benefits, not features: “You’ll save time with this machine’s fast, 12-page-per-minute speed” — not, “This machine prints 12 pages per minute.”

5. Choose readability over style: Use an easy-to-read typeface and type size such as this — not this: Don’t use a typeface or type size that’s hard to read.

6. Make it reader-oriented and interesting: “Did your roof survive the winter?” — not, “As you know, we offer complete roofing services.” 

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