How to Format Your Business Letter
Business letter formats allow you to improve your contact with clients or potential customers. By properly formatting your letter, you can maximize its effectiveness and impact on the reader.
A good business letter is a strong selling tool that goes beyond the paper and ink of the letter. It should stand out from other letters in your mailbox. This is the first impression your reader has of your company. By putting your best foot forward, your reader will know what kind of business you are. You can make a strong impression by practicing the following basic letter formatting techniques.
The first thing to consider is the letter’s size. Because most readers will be scanning the page, your letter should be larger than the normal letter size of five-point fonts. If your letter is too small, the reader may not even see it.
Next, consider splitting your paragraph text into two paragraphs. In the first paragraph, use a different font style. Use large bold type for the first paragraph, while a condensed version of the second paragraph is best written in smaller type. Split the paragraph into two paragraphs, not only to give your reader more room, but also to keep the content of the letter organized.
Formal and informal letter formats require slightly different letter size guidelines. Formal business letter formats are typically well-spaced, with small caps, italics, and full stops on the letterhead. Formal letter heads have spacing at the bottom and side margins, while formal letterheads are not condensed.
You want your letter to grab the reader’s attention and grab them in a good way. In order to accomplish this, consider using rounded corners, spaced boxes, and bold type. These elements bring a touch of sophistication to your letter, while also drawing your readers’ eye toward the main points of your letter.
Whether you are using an electronic form or a traditional version of a letter format, there are some common techniques that apply. One is to use a single bold font for both your first and second paragraph. Make sure your headline and first sentence are clear. In addition, have a picture attached to your letter as it is a great way to introduce yourself and draw the reader’s attention to the main points of your letter.
Another technique for improving your letter is to include all of your contact information, such as your name, physical address, phone number, and specific email addresses. This will help to build trust between you and your reader.