How to write a letter to your boss
You need to be careful to sound polite and diplomatic when you write to people with high status, such as your boss or a client. Make sure you use the correct verb forms to avoid sounding too direct. Here are some tips and samples for writing politely.
1. Make a suggestion rather than giving advice.
"We should commission a report" becomes "Perhaps we could commission a report."
2. Make a request rather than saying what you think.
"We need to discuss my salary" becomes "Would it be possible to discuss my salary?"
3. Instead of giving orders, make a request.
"I would like you to sign this letter" becomes "Could you sign this letter?"
4. Involve the other person, rather than focusing on your own needs.
"We need to meet the suppliers" becomes "Do you think we should / could meet the suppliers?" Or "It might be useful to meet the suppliers."
Save time and keep your boss happy by getting it right first time. Business Correspondence Essentials is the classic guide to Business Writing:
* All the phrases you need for everyday correspondence
* Templates for the most common business situations
* Guidelines for accurate punctuation, spelling and layout
* Easy-to-follow advice for the correct style and tone
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