Letter-Writing Topics:

Formal Social Event Acceptance Letter Accept a job offer Accept a request to serve in an honorary position Accept a resignation Accept an honor Accept an informal invitation to a social event Accept an invitation to a business appointment Accept an invitation to an event Accept an invitation to speak or perform Accept and express appreciation for a suggestion Decline to accept a gift Thank someone for accepting your advice or recommendation

Acknowledge an order or subscription Acknowledge payment of an overdue balance Acknowledge the receipt of a report, letter or other Acknowledge the receipt of a resume Acknowledge the receipt of a suggestion from an employee Acknowledge the return of an item for exchange, refund or credit

Business

Accept a request to serve in an honorary position Accept a resignation Accept and express appreciation for a suggestion Confirm an appointment, meeting, or interview Confirm miscellaneous business agreements Note the anniversary of a customer's company Write a letter on the anniversary of your company

Confirmation

Confirm an error, correction or revision Confirm an oral agreement Confirm a directive or decision Confirm that you have given authorization to someone Request confirmation of an authorization to take action

Employees

Announce an employee's retirement Note the anniversary of an employee's service

Miscellaneous

Respond positively to negative feedback Respond to rumors Write a letter acknowledging achievements

Social Events

Formal Social Event Acceptance Letter Accept an informal invitation to a social event Accept an invitation to a business appointment

Ask for personal advice Decline to give advice Encourage an employee after a disappointment or a company setback Encourage your reader to take advantage of a new opportunity Encourage/motivate your reader to increase sales Encourage/motivate your reader to keep up the good work Give advice to subordinates Give general advice Give personal advice Give professional advice Offer a suggestion to a customer Offer a suggestion to a subordinate Thank someone for accepting your advice or recommendation Thank someone for advice or a suggestion Write a letter of encouragement/motivation

Business Announcement Letters

Announce a bad weather or civil emergency policy Announce a budget surplus Announce a business anniversary Announce a change in policy or fee amount Announce a company savings plan Announce actions to be taken during a strike (management's announcement) Announce a change in your company's name Announce a change of business address Announce a contest winner Announce a drug testing program Announce a hiring freeze Announce a holiday closing Announce a holiday work schedule Announce a job-related party or retreat Announce a job opening Announce a layoff Announce a new business location Announce a new business, store, or branch office Announce a new partner Announce a routine meeting Announce a special meeting Announce an employee training session Announce an employee's achievement Announce an employee's retirement Announce an imminent strike (labor's announcement) Announce an office or store closing to employees Announce bad news to employees Inform employees of another's illness Introduce a business or professional contact Introduce someone to an organization or the community Notify employees of a new policy or a change in an existing one Welcome a new employee Write a news release Announce a broken engagement Announce a change of address Announce a class reunion Announce a divorce Announce an engagement in a newspaper Announce an engagement in a personal letter Announce an engagement with an invitation Announce the birth or adoption of a baby (personal letter) Announce the birth or adoption of a baby (public announcement) Announce the death of a family member to other family members, close friends, and acquaintances Announce the death of a family member, or write the obituary Announce the death of an employee or an employee's relative Announce the graduation of a son or daughter Announce your own retirement Announce a new product or service Announce a price decrease Announce a price increase Announce a sales contest Announce or introduce a new salesperson Promote a product by announcing a special sale or complimentary gift

Apply for a visa to work or study in a foreign country Apply for study in a foreign university Apply for temporary employment in a foreign country Request application materials for admission to college

Announce the appointment of an employee to a committee or position Apologize for missing an appointment Apologize for missing or being late to a meeting or appointment Cancel or decline to schedule an appointment Cancel or postpone an appointment Confirm an appointment, meeting, or interview Congratulate an employee, friend, or associate on an advancement or promotion Congratulate an official on an appointment or on winning an election Follow up after a sales appointment or telephone conversation Grant an appointment Schedule an appointment to interview a potential employee Take the minutes of a meeting Thank someone for an appointment, interview, or meeting Write a news release

Accept an Honor/Suggestion

Accept an honor Accept and express appreciation for a suggestion

Business/Work

Accept a job offer Accept an invitation to a business appointment Acknowledge the receipt of a report, letter or other Acknowledge the receipt of a resume Congratulate someone on his or her retirement Encourage/motivate your reader to increase sales Relieve someone from delegated responsibilities because someone else will assume them Thank a business for good service, low prices, or professional courtesies Thank someone for an appointment, interview, or meeting Thank someone for an award, bonus, or raise Write a farewell letter to a person who is leaving employment Write a farewell letter to a person who is retiring Write a farewell letter to management, co-workers or clients

Civic Service

Thank a doctor or health care facility Thank a religious leader

Customers

Express appreciation to long-term customers and those who pay their bills promptly Follow up after a sale to thank the customer and offer service Note the anniversary of a customer's company Thank a customer for a payment Thank a customer for purchasing a product or service Thank a customer or client

Employee

Acknowledge the receipt of a suggestion from an employee Announce the appointment of an employee to a committee or position Congratulate an employee on the anniversary of his or her service Compliment or praise an employee's family for their contribution to the employee's success Compliment or praise an employee's work performance Express appreciation to an employee Note the anniversary of an employee's service Thank a retiree for his or her service

Government/Political

Congratulate a politician on an election or on the passage of legislation Express regret on the defeat of legislation or the loss of an election Praise government officials or employees

Media

Compliment or praise the media, an author, or an editor Thank someone for media exposure

Personal

Give personal compliments or praise

Positive Feedback

Reply positively to a suggestion Respond positively to negative feedback Respond to a complaint and treat it as valuable feedback

Praise

Compliment or praise a product or service supplier Compliment or praise a program chairperson or planner Compliment or praise a salesperson or a sales staff Compliment or praise a speaker Compliment or praise someone for an achievement Compliment or praise the work of an employee from another firm Congratulate someone on a speech or presentation

Service

Accept a request to serve in an honorary position Thank someone for a favor Thank someone for a gift Thank someone for volunteer work Thank someone for help or support Thank someone for helping in your absence Thank someone for hospitality Thank someone for a philanthropic contribution Write a letter to accompany a contribution to a good cause

Social Event

Formal Social Event Acceptance Letter Accept an informal invitation to a social event Thank someone for a pleasant occasion Thank someone for visiting a place or attending an event

Sympathy

Send a gift with a sympathy letter Thank someone for expressions of sympathy

Thank You

Thank someone for a compliment or praise Thank someone for a job well done Thank someone for a referral or recommendation Thank someone for a reply or response Thank someone for a speech or presentation Thank someone for accepting your advice or recommendation Thank someone for advice or a suggestion Thank someone for an inquiry Thank someone for information

Approve a loan Approve a proposal Approve a request Approve a vacation or leave of absence Approve attendance at a conference or seminar Approve payment or funding for expenses incurred Endorse a proposal or report Grant a promotion or raise Grant approval for credit

Approve attendance at a conference or seminar Authorize a study or report Authorize legal representation Authorize medical treatment Authorize work to be done Confirm a transfer, promotion, or relocation assignment Confirm that you have given authorization to someone Delegate a special project Delegate new or additional duties Delegate responsibilities for the period of your absence Grant permission to use or publish materials Issue directives concerning reports and paperwork Issue directives concerning specific tasks Issue directives concerning studies and investigations Issue directives to adjust territories or structures Issue directives to establish, change, or reaffirm policies Issue directives to establish, change, or reaffirm procedures Request confirmation of an authorization to take action

Announce a broken engagement Announce a divorce Cancel a membership or subscription Cancel a rental contract Cancel a reservation Cancel a service contract Cancel a wedding Cancel an order Cancel or decline to schedule an appointment Cancel or postpone an appointment Cancel or postpone an invitation Cancel your own credit account Confirm a telephone request to transfer money, cancel and replace a stolen credit card, or stop payment on a check Notify an insurance policyholder of a pending cancellation of the policy

Approve payment or funding for expenses incurred Complain about a faulty delivery or a shipping error Complain about an unfair insurance payment or settlement File a warranty claim Make an insurance claim

Collection Letters Set 1: Remind a customer that payment is past due Collection Letters Set 2: Remind a customer that payment is past due Collection Letters Set 3: Appeal to a customer's personal interests to pay an overdue bill Collection Letters Set 4: Offer assistance to a customer having difficulty paying an overdue bill Collection Letters Set 5: Demand payment on a delinquent account Collection Letters Set 6: Announce your intention to take aggressive action against a customer for failing to make payment Write a collection letter

Appeal to higher authorities when complaint letters don't work Complain about a faulty delivery or a shipping error Complain about receiving damaged goods Complain about poor facilities or equipment Complain about harassment Complain to a neighbor or a landlord Complain about an unfair insurance payment or settlement Complain about community problems Complain about a billing error Complain about overdue work or poor workmanship Complain about laws, policies, or inefficiencies Complain about poor service or a faulty product Complain about a delay in an order Complain about a radio or television broadcast Complain about an employee who has given poor or offensive service Complain to a club or organization Correct an official's mistake on your taxes Delegate follow-up on a complaint from a customer Demand satisfaction on a mail order transaction gone bad (suspected mail fraud) Disagree about benefits (social security, retirement, insurance, etc.) Disagree with a bill, rent payment, or other financial issue Disagree with a subordinate, a superior, or a person in authority Dismiss an employee for poor performance or unacceptable behavior Document employee reprimands File a warranty claim Make an insurance claim Reprimand an employee for poor attendance or tardiness Reprimand an employee for a breach of policy Reprimand an employee for poor performance Request correction of an error in a check Request a retraction or correction from the media Request correction of an error in a credit report Request correction of a billing error Request a refund or reimbursement Respond to a complaint and treat it as valuable feedback Respond to a complaint Respond to a complaint of discrimination or sexual harassment Respond to a complaint while admitting fault and making an adjustment Respond to a false accusation from a government agency Respond to a complaint while avoiding agreement or denying liability, and refusing to make an adjustment Respond to a complaint while avoiding or denying liability, but making an adjustment Respond to a complaint, but needing more information Warn a distributor under your supervision Write a disagreement letter Write a complaint letter to a superior Write a complaint letter to a subordinate Write a letter reprimanding tenants

Announce a contest winner Compliment or praise a speaker Compliment or praise an employee's family for their contribution to the employee's success Compliment or praise an employee's work performance Compliment or praise someone for an achievement Compliment or praise the media, an author, or an editor Compliment or praise the work of an employee from another firm Give personal compliments or praise Encourage an employee after a disappointment or a company setback Endorse a political candidate Endorse or nominate a candidate for an award Motivate a sales force Thank a business for good service, low prices, or professional courtesies Thank a doctor or health care facility Thank a religious leader Thank someone for a compliment or praise Thank someone for a job well done Thank someone for volunteer work Write a letter of encouragement/motivation Write a letter to accompany a gift

Offer sympathy for a marriage separation or divorce Offer sympathy for loss or damage caused by a theft, vandalism, or natural disaster Offer sympathy for the death of a business associate Offer sympathy for the death of a business associate's family member Offer sympathy for the death of a child Offer sympathy for the death of a friend or relative Offer sympathy for the death of a person who has been ill Offer sympathy for the loss of a job Offer sympathy for the loss or death of a pet Offer sympathy in a case of serious or terminal illness Send a gift with a sympathy letter Write a get-well message regarding an employee's or business associate's family member who is suffering from illness or injury Write a get-well message to a child suffering from illness or injury Write a get-well message to a friend or relative suffering from an illness or injury Write a get-well message to a teacher suffering from illness or injury Write a get-well message to an employee or business associate suffering from illness or injury

Agreements/Authorizations

Confirm an oral agreement Confirm that you have given authorization to someone Request confirmation of an authorization to take action

Business/Work

Acknowledge the receipt of a report, letter or other Confirm a directive or decision Confirm a transfer, promotion, or relocation assignment Confirm an appointment, meeting, or interview Confirm miscellaneous business agreements Confirm an order you have made Confirm receipt of an order from a customer Confirm the receipt of a resume, contract bid, or application (receiver's letter) Follow up after a meeting to review decisions and assignments Request confirmation of the receipt of a resume, contract bid, application, etc. (sender's letter) Schedule an appointment to interview a potential employee

Miscellaneous

Confirm a telephone request to transfer money, cancel and replace a stolen credit card, or stop payment on a check Request confirmation of receipt of earlier mailings Confirm an error correction or revision Confirm the receipt of a package or other item(s) Confirm the sending of a package or other item(s)

Social or Business Events

Confirm a guest's attendance at a conference or symposium (organizer's letter) Confirm a speaker's or special guest's attendance Confirm your own attendance as a speaker or special guest

Travel/Accommodations

Confirm a reservation or registration (organizer's or accommodation provider's letter) Confirm a reservation or registration (traveler's letter) Confirm travel arrangements (arranger's letter) Confirm travel arrangements (traveler's letter)

Congratulate a friend or associate on getting a new job Congratulate a politician on an election or on the passage of legislation Congratulate an employee on the anniversary of his or her service Congratulate an employee, friend, or associate on an advancement or promotion Congratulate an official on an appointment or on winning an election Congratulate someone on a religious occasion Congratulate someone on a speech or presentation Congratulate someone on an achievement, an accomplishment, or on a job well done Congratulate someone on his or her birthday Congratulate someone on his or her engagement Congratulate someone on his or her graduation Congratulate someone on his or her retirement Congratulate someone on his or her wedding or marriage Congratulate someone on publishing a book or article Congratulate someone on the anniversary of their marriage Congratulate someone on the birth or adoption of a child Congratulate someone on the opening of a new business, store, or office Congratulate someone on winning a contract Congratulate someone on winning an award or receiving a scholarship or other honor

Respond to a job advertisement and request an interview Respond to a request for your resume Use networking in a job search Write a cover letter to introduce a resume Write a letter in a job search

Cancel, Suspend, or Restrict a Credit Account

Announce punitive measures against a client's account Cancel or withdraw a customer's credit account Warn a customer about credit suspension or penalization

Miscellaneous

Confirm a telephone request to transfer money, cancel and replace a stolen credit card, or stop payment on a check Write a credit reference

Open a Credit Account

Extend an invitation to open an account Offer the use of a charge account

Request a Loan or Credit

Approve a loan Ask an applicant for credit to submit more information Decline a request for credit Grant approval for credit Investigate an applicant's credit reference Request an explanation for a denial of credit Request an increased credit line Request or apply for a credit account Welcome a new account or an account reactivation

Request or Make Payment

Acknowledge payment of an overdue balance Inform a customer of an incorrect payment amount and ask for the balance Inform a customer of an overpayment Inform a customer that the check you received was not signed or the payment was not in the envelope Notify a creditor that you have stopped payment on a check Notify a debtor of a returned check Offer a discount for early payment on products or services Promise a delayed payment to a creditor Remind an organization member to pay a fee, duty, or pledge Request payment of a personal loan Send a late payment after a mutual agreement to do so Suggest an alternative plan or schedule for payments Transmit a payment

Authorize a study or report Authorize medical treatment Delegate a special project Delegate follow-up on a complaint from a customer Delegate new or additional duties Delegate responsibilities for the period of your absence Follow up after a meeting to review decisions and assignments Relieve someone from delegated responsibilities because someone else will assume them

Announce a holiday work schedule Announce an employee training session Delegate a special project Delegate follow-up on a complaint from a customer Delegate new or additional duties Follow up after a meeting to review decisions and assignments Issue directives concerning reports and paperwork Issue directives concerning specific tasks Issue directives concerning studies and investigations Issue directives to adjust territories or structures Issue directives to establish, change, or reaffirm policies Issue directives to establish, change, or reaffirm procedures Notify employees of a new policy or a change in an existing one

Disagree about benefits (social security, retirement, insurance, etc.) Disagree with a bill, rent payment, or other financial issue Disagree with a subordinate, a superior, or a person in authority Oppose legislation Respond to a false accusation from a government agency Write a disagreement letter

Announce a layoff Announce an office or store closing to employees Dismiss an employee for poor performance or unacceptable behavior Dismiss an employee for reasons beyond the employee's control Reject or terminate a business relationship

Advocate legislation Encourage an employee after a disappointment or a company setback Encourage/motivate your reader to increase sales Encourage/motivate your reader to keep up the good work Encourage your reader to take advantage of a new opportunity Offer a suggestion to a religious leader Offer a suggestion to a supplier or retailer Recommend a course of action or support a decision or policy change Sell a seminar or conference Suggest a change in a contract or agreement Write a letter of encouragement/motivation Write a letter to persuade an editor or the public on an issue Write a persuasive letter Write a persuasive letter to a government official Write a persuasive memo to an employee or colleague Write an insurance sales letter

Advocate legislation Confirm a directive or decision Confirm miscellaneous business agreements Confirm that you have given authorization to someone Endorse a political candidate Endorse a proposal or report Request an endorsement or testimonial Request confirmation of an authorization to take action Endorse or nominate a candidate for an award

If you have made an error:

Apologize for a defective, damaged, or incomplete product Apologize for a missed deadline Apologize for a shipping delay or error Apologize for an invoice or billing error Apologize for betrayed trust Apologize for damaged property Apologize for hurt feelings Apologize for missing an appointment Apologize for missing an event or for overlooking or forgetting someone Apologize for missing or being late to a meeting or appointment Apologize for offensive behavior Apologize for poor or inadequate service Apologize for providing incorrect or incomplete information Apologize for sending a collection letter by mistake Apologize for someone else (business) Apologize for someone else (personal) Apologize to an employee or employees Correct your own error in a transaction Explain an error you have made Write a business apology Write a personal apology

If someone else has made an error:

Complain about a billing error Complain about a faulty delivery or a shipping error Complain about an unfair insurance payment or settlement Complain about poor facilities or equipment Complain about poor service or a faulty product Complain about receiving damaged goods Confirm an error correction or revision Correct a customer's error or assertion Correct an error in a payment made or received Correct an official's mistake on your taxes Disagree about benefits (social security, retirement, insurance, etc.) Disagree with a bill, rent payment, or other financial issue Disagree with a subordinate, a superior, or a person in authority Inform a customer that the check you received was not signed or the payment was not in the envelope Inform customers of a misprint Request correction of a billing error Request correction of an error in a check Request correction of an error in a credit report Request correction of an insurance company's error Write a disagreement letter

Announce an employee's retirement Announce your own retirement Resign from a job because of a personality clash or conflict of values Resign from a job in which you are not valued or appreciated Resign from a job when forced out under pressure Resign for family or personal reasons Resign for health reasons Resign to take an early retirement Resign to take another job Write a farewell letter to a person who is leaving employment Write a farewell letter to a person who is retiring Write a farewell letter to management, co-workers or clients

Follow up after a meeting to review decisions and assignments Follow up after a sale to thank the customer and offer service Follow up after a sales appointment or telephone conversation Follow up after a sales presentation or demonstration Follow up after receiving no response to earlier correspondence Follow up during a job search after a lapse of time Follow up during a job search after a telephone contact Follow up during a job search after an interview Follow up on a sales interview, presentation, or exhibit Follow up on a sales offer Follow up with a reminder Notify a customer that a shipment has been delayed or that merchandise ordered is not available Notify a customer that you have shipped an order Notify a shipper that an order is incomplete, incorrect or damaged; also, return unwanted or incorrect merchandise Schedule an appointment to interview a potential employee

Decline a request for a donation Extend an invitation to participate in or attend a fundraising event Respond to a request for a donation or to a fundraising letter Thank someone for a philanthropic contribution Write a fundraising letter Write a letter to accompany a contribution to a good cause Write a persuasive letter that makes a charitable request

Write a get-well message regarding an employee's or business associate's family member who is suffering from illness or injury Write a get-well message to a child suffering from illness or injury Write a get-well message to a friend or relative suffering from an illness or injury Write a get-well message to a teacher suffering from illness or injury Write a get-well message to an employee or business associate suffering from illness or injury

Decline to accept a gift Introduce gifts to customers and prospective customers Send a gift with a sympathy letter Thank someone for a gift Write a letter to accompany a contribution to a good cause Write a letter to accompany a gift

Announcement

Announce a company savings plan Announce an employee's achievement Keep a customer up to date on progress Write a letter on the anniversary of your company

Apology

Apologize for a defective, damaged, or incomplete product Apologize for a late payment Apologize for a missed deadline Apologize for a shipping delay or error Apologize for an invoice or billing error Apologize for betrayed trust Apologize for hurt feelings Apologize for missing an appointment Apologize for missing an event or for overlooking or forgetting someone Apologize for missing or being late to a meeting or appointment Apologize for offensive behavior Apologize for poor or inadequate service Apologize for providing incorrect or incomplete information Apologize for someone else (business) Apologize for someone else (personal) Apologize to an employee or employees Write a business apology Write a personal apology

Appreciation

Express appreciation to an employee Express appreciation to long-term customers and those who pay their bills promptly Grant a promotion or raise Write a letter acknowledging achievements

Congratulations

Congratulate an employee on the anniversary of his or her service Congratulate an employee, friend, or associate on an advancement or promotion Congratulate an official on an appointment or on winning an election Congratulate someone on a religious occasion Congratulate someone on a speech or presentation Congratulate someone on an achievement, an accomplishment, or on a job well done Congratulate someone on his or her birthday Congratulate someone on his or her engagement Congratulate someone on his or her graduation Congratulate someone on his or her retirement Congratulate someone on his or her wedding or marriage Congratulate someone on publishing a book or article Congratulate someone on the anniversary of their marriage Congratulate someone on the birth or adoption of a child Congratulate someone on the opening of a new business, store, or office Congratulate someone on winning a contract Congratulate someone on winning an award or receiving a scholarship or other honor

Farewells

Write a farewell letter to a person who is leaving employment Write a farewell letter to a person who is retiring Write a farewell letter to management, co-workers or clients

Sympathy/Get Well

Offer sympathy for a marriage separation or divorce Offer sympathy for loss or damage caused by a theft, vandalism, or natural disaster Offer sympathy for the death of a business associate Offer sympathy for the death of a business associate's family member Offer sympathy for the death of a child Offer sympathy for the death of a friend or relative Offer sympathy for the death of a person who has been ill Offer sympathy for the loss of a job Offer sympathy for the loss or death of a pet Offer sympathy in a case of serious or terminal illness Send a gift with a sympathy letter Write a get-well message regarding an employee's or business associate's family member who is suffering from illness or injury Write a get-well message to a child suffering from illness or injury Write a get-well message to a friend or relative suffering from an illness or injury Write a get-well message to a teacher suffering from illness or injury Write a get-well message to an employee or business associate suffering from illness or injury

Thank You

Thank a business for good service, low prices, or professional courtesies Thank a customer for purchasing a product or service Thank a doctor or health care facility Thank a religious leader Thank a retiree for his or her service Thank someone for a favor Thank someone for a pleasant occasion Thank someone for helping in your absence Thank someone for hospitality Thank someone for visiting a place or attending an event Thank someone for volunteer work

Welcome

Welcome a new business to town Welcome a new customer or client Welcome a new employee Welcome a new resident to the neighborhood Welcome a new shareholder Welcome a new student to school, class, or a training seminar Welcome a potential customer or client to the area Welcome a son-in-law or daughter-in-law into the family Welcome someone into a group, association, religion, or club

Miscellaneous

Explain an error you have made Extend holiday or winter season's greetings to employees, customers, and business associates Extend holiday or winter season's greetings to friends Extend Labor Day greetings to employees Extend Mother's Day or Father's Day greetings (personal) Extend Mother's Day or Father's Day greetings and/or announce sales or promotions for these days Introduce gifts to customers and prospective customers Invite or request suggestions from employees and customers Note the anniversary of a customer's company Note the anniversary of an employee's service Offer voluntary services Respond positively to negative feedback Send a late payment after a mutual agreement to do so Strengthen relationships with customers Write a letter to accompany a contribution to a good cause Write a letter to accompany a gift

Advocate legislation Complain about laws, policies, or inefficiencies Congratulate a politician on an election or on the passage of legislation Express regret on the defeat of legislation or the loss of an election Oppose legislation Praise government officials or employees Report required information to a government agency Request government service or action Request information from a government agency Respond to a false accusation from a government agency Write a persuasive letter to a government official

Announce a job-related party or retreat Extend holiday or winter season's greetings to employees, customers, and business associates Extend holiday or winter season's greetings to friends Extend invitations to seasonal parties: Halloween, St. Patrick's Day, Valentine's Day, etc. (business and personal) Extend invitations to winter holiday parties (business and personal) Extend Labor Day greetings to employees Extend Mother's Day or Father's Day greetings (personal) Extend Mother's Day or Father's Day greetings and/or announce sales or promotions for these days

Business/Work

Announce a budget surplus Announce a business anniversary Announce a change in your company's name Announce a change of business address Announce a company savings plan Announce a hiring freeze Announce a holiday closing Announce a holiday work schedule Announce a job opening Announce a job-related party or retreat Announce a layoff Announce a new business, store, or branch office Announce a new partner Announce a new product or service Announce a routine meeting Announce a special meeting Announce actions to be taken during a strike (management's announcement) Announce an imminent strike (labor's announcement) Announce punitive measures against a client's account Approve a proposal Approve a vacation or leave of absence Approve attendance at a conference or seminar Approve payment or funding for expenses incurred Authorize work to be done Cancel or decline to schedule an appointment Cancel or postpone an appointment Complain about poor service or a faulty product Confirm a transfer, promotion, or relocation assignment Confirm that you have given authorization to someone Confirm the receipt of a resume, contract bid, or application (receiver's letter) Confirm miscellaneous business agreements Delegate a special project Delegate new or additional duties Delegate responsibilities for the period of your absence Give advice to subordinates Grant a promotion or raise Introduce a product or service Issue directives concerning specific tasks Issue directives concerning studies and investigations Issue directives concerning reports and paperwork Issue directives to adjust territories or structures Issue directives to establish, change or reaffirm policies Issue directives to establish, change, or reaffirm procedures Notify a shipper that an order is incomplete, incorrect or damaged; also, return unwanted or incorrect merchandise Request confirmation of an authorization to take action Request confirmation of the receipt of a resume, contract bid, application, etc. (sender's letter) Respond to a complaint Respond to a request for your resume Take the minutes of a meeting Transmit informational or sales literature Write a complaint letter to a subordinate Write a complaint letter to a superior Write a cover letter to introduce a resume

Civic/Government

Announce a bad weather or civil emergency policy Complain about community problems Correct an official's mistake on your taxes Report required information to a government agency

Credit/Loan

Approve a loan Cancel or withdraw a customer's credit account Cancel your own credit account Grant approval for credit Notify a creditor that you have stopped payment on a check Notify a debtor of a returned check Write a credit reference

Customers

Correct a customer's error or assertion Delegate follow-up on a complaint from a customer Inform a customer of an incorrect payment amount and ask for the balance Inform a customer of an overpayment Inform customers of a misprint Keep a customer up to date on progress Notify a customer that a shipment has been delayed or that merchandise ordered is not available Notify a customer that you have shipped an order

Employees

Announce an employee's achievement Announce an employee training session Announce an office or store closing to employees Announce bad news to employees Announce the appointment of an employee to a committee or position Announce the death of an employee or an employee's relative Complain about an employee who has given poor or offensive service Dismiss an employee for poor performance or unacceptable behavior Inform employees of another's illness Introduce a new employee Notify employees of a new policy or a change in an existing one

Miscellaneous

Announce a contest winner Announce a drug testing program Authorize a study or report Authorize legal representation Authorize medical treatment Cancel a membership or subscription Cancel a rental contract Cancel a service contract Complain about harassment Complain to a club or organization Complain about an unfair insurance payment or settlement Confirm a guest's attendance at a conference or symposium (organizer's letter) Confirm a directive or decision Confirm an error correction or revision Confirm the receipt of a package or other item(s) Confirm the sending of a package or other item(s) Correct an error in a payment made or received Endorse a proposal or report Explain an error you have made File a warranty claim Grant permission to use or publish materials Make an insurance claim Network by discussing publications or speeches Offer voluntary services Relieve someone from delegated responsibilities because someone else will assume them Write a letter to persuade an editor or the public on an issue Write a news release

Personal

Announce a broken engagement Announce a change of address Announce a class reunion Announce a divorce Announce an engagement in a newspaper Announce an engagement in a personal letter Announce an engagement with an invitation Announce the birth or adoption of a baby (personal letter) Announce the birth or adoption of a baby (public announcement) Announce the death of a family member, or write the obituary Announce the death of a family member to other family members, close friends, and acquaintances Announce the graduation of a son or daughter Announce your own retirement Cancel a reservation Cancel or postpone an invitation Cancel a wedding Confirm your own attendance as a speaker or special guest Correct your own error in a transaction Introduce a friend, an acquaintance, a relative, or yourself to someone in anticipation of a future meeting

Sales

Announce a price decrease Announce a price increase Announce a sales contest Announce or introduce a new salesperson

Social Events/Travel

Confirm a reservation or registration (organizer's or accommodation provider's letter) Confirm a reservation or registration (traveler's letter) Confirm a speaker's or special guest's attendance Confirm travel arrangements (arranger's letter) Confirm travel arrangements (traveler's letter)

Ask for personal advice Answer a request for information on a product or service Give general advice Request a copy of an official document Request a response to a survey or questionnaire Request an explanation for a denial of credit Request application materials for admission to college Request confirmation of receipt of earlier mailings Request estimates or bids Request information Request information about an applicant Request information from a government agency Request samples or information about products or services Respond to an inquiry about products or services Thank someone for an inquiry Thank someone for information Use networking in a job search Write a letter in a job search

Business Introductions

Introduce a business or professional contact Introduce a new employee Introduce a product or service Introduce gifts to customers and prospective customers Introduce someone to an organization or the community Welcome a new employee

Business Announcements

Announce a new business, store, or branch office Announce a new partner Announce a new product or service

Personal Introductions

Introduce a friend, an acquaintance, a relative, or yourself to someone in anticipation of a future meeting

Sales Introductions

Announce a new partner Announce a new product or service Announce or introduce a new salesperson Introduce a catalog, brochure, or other sales literature Introduce a product or service Introduce gifts to customers and prospective customers

Extend an invitation

Extend a formal invitation Extend an invitation for a job interview Extend an invitation to a business social event Extend an invitation to a personal social event Extend an invitation to attend a trade show, seminar, or conference Extend an invitation to join an organization Extend an invitation to open an account Extend an invitation to participate in or attend a fundraising event Extend an invitation to speak or perform Extend invitations to seasonal parties: Halloween, St. Patrick's Day, Valentine's Day, etc. (business and personal) Extend invitations to winter holiday parties (business and personal) Invite a customer to request a sample product or more information Invite a prospective customer to a sales appointment, presentation, or demonstration

Accept an invitation

Formal Social Event Acceptance Letter Accept a request to serve in an honorary position Accept an informal invitation to a social event Accept an invitation to a business appointment Accept an invitation to an event Accept an invitation to join an organization Accept an invitation to speak or perform

Announce or cancel an invitation

Announce a broken engagement Announce a business anniversary Announce a class reunion Announce a job-related party or retreat Announce a routine meeting Announce a special meeting Announce an engagement in a personal letter Announce an engagement with an invitation Announce the graduation of a son or daughter Cancel a wedding Cancel or postpone an invitation

Confirm or decline an invitation

Confirm a guest's attendance at a conference or symposium (organizer's letter) Confirm a speaker's or special guest's attendance Confirm your own attendance as a speaker or special guest Decline an invitation to an event Decline an invitation to join an organization Decline an invitation to speak or perform

Accept a job offer Acknowledge the receipt of a resume Announce a job opening Decline a job offer, promotion, or transfer Decline a request for employment Extend a job offer Extend an invitation for a job interview Follow up during a job search after a lapse of time Follow up during a job search after a telephone contact Follow up during a job search after an interview Offer a sales position to someone who has not applied for employment Respond to a job advertisement and request an interview Respond to a job offer, negotiating a higher salary Respond to a job offer, negotiating conditions Respond to a request for your resume Use networking in a job search Write a cover letter to introduce a resume Write a letter in a job search

Confessions of Love I Love You Lost Love Miss You Second Chances Sorry Thinking of You Can we start over? (Let's see if the magic is still there.) Dear Ex: Things turned out okay for everyone. (We're older now, but wiser.) Goodbye forever (It's time to go our separate ways.) Happy Anniversary! (Thanks for always being there!) Has someone come between us? (I see the telltale signs.) I love you. (Last night was unforgettable!) I really miss you. (Please come home soon.) I'd like to get to know you better. (Do you remember me?) I'll do whatever it takes. (Just please come back.) I'm falling for you. (We're made for each other!) I'm glad we went out together. (I want to see you again.) Let's part on good terms while we can. (It's time to go our separate ways.) Please forgive me. (This relationship is worth saving!) Sorry we didn't agree. (But can we kiss and make up?) Sorry, this isn't working for me anymore. (We need to separate for a while.) Tell me what I did wrong. (I know I can make it up to you.) That was a stupid thing I said/did. (But I don't usually behave this way.) Too many things have come between us. (Let's go back to the way we were.) I want to spend the rest of my life with you. (My love is real and so is my commitment!) We need to see a marriage counselor. (It's time we let someone come between us!) We need to slow down. (I'm feeling a little crowded!) We never really talk. (Tell me what you're thinking.) We've come to a standstill. (Let's reconsider our goals.) You mean everything to me. (You're my better half; we make each other whole!) You really hurt me. (But tell me your side of it -- I'm listening!)

Acknowledge an order or subscription Announce a new product or service Cancel an order Change an order Complain about a delay in an order Confirm an order you have made Confirm receipt of an order from a customer Confirm the receipt of a package or other item(s) Confirm the sending of a package or other item(s) Decline orders but offer an alternate or substitute item Decline orders or requests for information Demand satisfaction on a mail order transaction gone bad (suspected mail fraud) Introduce a catalog, brochure, or other sales literature Introduce a product or service Make a reservation Notify a customer that a shipment has been delayed or that merchandise ordered is not available Notify a customer that you have shipped an order Notify a shipper that an order is incomplete, incorrect or damaged; also, return unwanted or incorrect merchandise Request a discount or a complimentary product or service Request a rush order Request additional money or information before you can fill an order Request estimates or bids Request information on a product or service Respond to an inquiry about products or services Solicit mail orders for your product Thank a customer for a payment Transmit a payment Transmit a shipment of merchandise that a customer has purchased Welcome a new account or an account reactivation

Advocate legislation Contact customers with inactive accounts for sales purposes Encourage your reader to take advantage of a new opportunity Encourage/motivate your reader to keep up the good work Endorse a political candidate Endorse or nominate a candidate for an award Introduce a product or service Invite a customer to request an example product or more information Motivate a sales force Offer a suggestion to a supplier or retailer Oppose legislation Promote a product by announcing a special sale or complimentary gift Recommend a course of action or support a decision or policy change Recommend a service or product Recommend a teenager for a job (strong recommendation letter) Request a raise or promotion Request a retraction or correction from the media Sell a seminar or conference Suggest a change in a contract or agreement Use a referral in a sales letter Write a letter of encouragement/motivation Write a letter to persuade an editor or the public on an issue Write a persuasive letter that makes a charitable request Write a persuasive letter to a government official Write a persuasive letter Write a persuasive memo to an employee or colleague Write a weak recommendation for a job candidate Write an insurance sales letter

Advocate legislation Decline to write a letter of recommendation Endorse a political candidate Endorse or nominate a candidate for an award Recommend a course of action or support a decision or policy change Recommend a service or product Recommend a teenager for a job (strong recommendation letter) Request information about an applicant Request that someone write a letter of recommendation in your behalf Thank someone for accepting your advice or recommendation Thank someone for a referral or recommendation Thank someone for writing a reference or recommendation for you Use a referral in a sales letter Write a credit reference Write a recommendation or a reference about someone Write a weak recommendation for a job candidate

Cancel or decline to schedule an appointment Decline a job offer, promotion, or transfer Decline a request for a claim or adjustment Decline a request for credit Decline a request for a donation Decline a request for employment Decline to accept a gift Decline to give advice Decline orders but offer an alternate or substitute item Decline orders or requests for information Decline an invitation to an event Decline an invitation to join an organization Decline an invitation to speak or perform Decline to write a letter of recommendation Deny an expected or hoped-for promotion or raise Reject a bid or proposal Reject or terminate a business relationship Reply negatively to a suggestion Turn down a customer's or employee's suggestion Write a refusal

Document employee reprimands Give a warning to an employee Reprimand an employee for a breach of policy Reprimand an employee for poor attendance or tardiness Reprimand an employee for poor performance Warn a customer about credit suspension or penalization Warn a distributor under your supervision Write a letter reprimanding tenants

Business/Work

Request a change in a contract or agreement Request a copy of an official document Request a raise or promotion Request a response to a survey or questionnaire Request an endorsement or testimonial Request assistance or cooperation from someone in another firm Request confirmation of an authorization to take action

Credit Line

Request an explanation for a denial of credit Request an increased credit line Request correction of an error in a credit report Request or apply for a credit account

Information

Request information Request information about an applicant Request information from a government agency Request information on a product or service

Sales

Request a discount or a complimentary product or service Request a refund or reimbursement Request correction of a billing error Request samples or information about products or services

Service

Request a favor Request an individual to volunteer services Request government service or action

Miscellaneous

Request a retraction or correction from the media Request application materials for admission to college Request confirmation of receipt of earlier mailings Request correction of an error in a check Request correction of an insurance company's error Request estimates or bids Request payment of a personal loan Request permission to use another's materials Request that someone write a letter of recommendation in your behalf

Cancel a reservation Confirm a reservation or registration (organizer's or accommodation provider's letter) Confirm a reservation or registration (traveler's letter) Confirm travel arrangements (arranger's letter) Confirm travel arrangements (traveler's letter) Make a reservation

Accept a resignation Announce an employee's retirement Announce your own retirement Resign from a job in which you are not valued or appreciated Resign from a job because of a personality clash or conflict of values Resign from a job when forced out under pressure Resign for family or personal reasons Resign for health reasons Resign to take an early retirement Resign to take another job

Respond to a Complaint

Respond to a complaint of discrimination or sexual harassment Respond to a complaint while admitting fault and making an adjustment Respond to a complaint while avoiding agreement or denying liability, and refusing to make an adjustment Respond to a complaint while avoiding or denying liability, but making an adjustment Respond to a complaint, but needing more information Respond to a complaint

Respond to a Job Offer

Respond to a job offer, negotiating a higher salary Respond to a job offer, negotiating conditions

Respond to Feedback

Respond positively to negative feedback Respond to a complaint and treat it as valuable feedback

Miscellaneous Response-Letter Topics

Respond to a false accusation from a government agency Respond to a request for a donation or to a fundraising letter Respond to a request or application for additional training Respond to a sales rejection Respond to an inquiry about products or services Respond to rumors

Announce a sales contest Contact customers with inactive accounts for sales purposes Extend an invitation to attend a trade show, seminar, or conference Extend Mother's Day or Father's Day greetings and/or announce sales or promotions for these days Follow up after a sale to thank the customer and offer service Follow up after a sales appointment or telephone conversation Follow up after a sales presentation or demonstration Follow up on a sales interview, presentation, or exhibit Follow up on a sales offer Introduce a catalog, brochure, or other sales literature Introduce a product or service Introduce gifts to customers and prospective customers Invite a customer to request a sample product or more information Invite a prospective customer to a sales appointment, presentation, or demonstration Motivate a sales force Offer a discount for early payment on products or services Promote a product by announcing a special sale or complimentary gift Resell to long-time customers Respond to a sales rejection Respond to an inquiry about products or services Sell a seminar or conference Solicit mail orders for your product Strengthen relationships with customers Welcome a new account or an account reactivation Welcome a new customer or client Welcome a potential customer or client to the area Write a sales letter Write an insurance sales letter

Formal Social Event Acceptance Letter Accept an invitation to a business appointment Accept an invitation to an event Accept an invitation to join an organization Accept an invitation to speak or perform Accept an informal invitation to a social event Announce a broken engagement Announce a class reunion Announce a job-related party or retreat Announce an engagement in a newspaper Announce an engagement in a personal letter Announce an engagement with an invitation Announce the graduation of a son or daughter Apologize for missing an appointment Apologize for missing an event or for overlooking or forgetting someone Cancel a wedding Cancel or postpone an invitation Confirm a guest's attendance at a conference or symposium (organizer's letter) Confirm a speaker's or special guest's attendance Confirm your own attendance as a speaker or special guest Congratulate someone on a religious occasion Congratulate someone on his or her engagement Congratulate someone on his or her graduation Congratulate someone on his or her wedding or marriage Decline an invitation to an event Decline an invitation to join an organization Decline an invitation to speak or perform Extend an invitation to participate in or attend a fund-raising event Extend an invitation to a business social event Extend an invitation to a personal social event Extend an invitation to join an organization Extend invitations to winter holiday parties (business and personal) Extend an invitation to speak or perform Extend invitations to seasonal parties: Halloween, St. Patrick's Day, Valentine's Day, etc. (business and personal) Extend a formal invitation Introduce someone to an organization or the community Thank someone for hospitality Thank someone for visiting a place or attending an event Welcome a new resident to the neighborhood Welcome someone into a group, association, religion, or club

Accept and express appreciation for a suggestion Acknowledge the receipt of a suggestion from an employee Advocate legislation Ask for personal advice Decline to give advice Encourage your reader to take advantage of a new opportunity Encourage/motivate your reader to keep up the good work Endorse a political candidate Endorse or nominate a candidate for an award Give advice to subordinates Give general advice Give personal advice Give professional advice Invite or request suggestions from employees and customers Offer a suggestion Offer a suggestion to a customer Offer a suggestion to a religious leader Offer a suggestion to a subordinate Offer a suggestion to a superior Offer a suggestion to a supplier or retailer Reply negatively to a suggestion Reply positively to a suggestion Suggest a change in a contract or agreement Suggest an alternative plan or schedule for payments Thank someone for advice or a suggestion Turn down a customer's or employee's suggestion

Announce bad news to employees Announce the death of a family member, or write the obituary Announce the death of a family member to other family members, close friends, and acquaintances Announce the death of an employee or an employee's relative Encourage an employee after a disappointment or a company setback Express regret on the defeat of legislation or the loss of an election Inform employees of another's illness Offer sympathy for a marriage separation or divorce Offer sympathy for loss or damage caused by a theft, vandalism, or natural disaster Offer sympathy for the death of a business associate Offer sympathy for the death of a business associate's family member Offer sympathy for the death of a child Offer sympathy for the death of a friend or relative Offer sympathy for the death of a person who has been ill Offer sympathy for the loss of a job Offer sympathy for the loss or death of a pet Offer sympathy in a case of serious or terminal illness Send a gift with a sympathy letter Thank someone for expressions of sympathy Write a get-well message regarding an employee's or business associate's family member who is suffering from illness or injury Write a get-well message to a child suffering from illness or injury Write a get-well message to a friend or relative suffering from an illness or injury Write a get-well message to an employee or business associate suffering from illness or injury

Thank a customer or client Thank a customer for a payment Thank someone for a compliment or praise Thank someone for a favor Thank someone for a gift Thank someone for a job well done Thank someone for a philanthropic contribution Thank someone for a pleasant occasion Thank someone for a referral or recommendation Thank someone for a reply or response Thank someone for a speech or presentation Thank someone for accepting your advice or recommendation Thank someone for advice or a suggestion Thank someone for an appointment, interview, or meeting Thank someone for an award, bonus, or raise Thank someone for an inquiry Thank someone for expressions of sympathy Thank someone for goods or materials received Thank someone for help or support Thank someone for hospitality Thank someone for information Thank someone for media exposure Thank someone for visiting a place or attending an event Thank a business for good service, low prices, or professional courtesies Thank a customer for purchasing a product or service Thank a doctor or health care facility Thank a religious leader Thank a retiree for his or her service Thank someone for helping in your absence Thank someone for volunteer work Thank someone for writing a reference or recommendation for you

Transmit a bid, proposal, or quotation Transmit a contract Transmit a document for review, correction, or other action Transmit a fax Transmit a manuscript to be considered for publication Transmit a payment Transmit a progress report, an analytical study, a formal report, or a manuscript for use within an organization Transmit a shipment of merchandise that a customer has purchased Transmit an advertising copy to a magazine or other media Transmit equipment or supplies that a company employee has requested Transmit informational or sales literature

Announce a new business, store, or branch office Announce a new partner Announce or introduce a new salesperson Welcome a new account or an account reactivation Welcome a new business to town Welcome a new customer or client Welcome a new employee Welcome a new shareholder Welcome a new student to school, class, or a training seminar Welcome a son-in-law or daughter-in-law into the family Welcome a potential customer or client to the area Welcome someone into a group, association, religion, or club