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How to Write the Perfect Request Letter by Larry Barkdull, Award-Winning, Nationally Recognized Writer

This article will give you basic guidelines for writing various types of Request Letters. Typically, you would write a Request Letter when you wanted to ask for one of the following:

• a job interview
• a raise or promotion
• a specific type of information
• a third party to compose a letter on your behalf

Request for an Interview

(This is the most common type of Request Letter)

• Use a formal letter style such as block or semi-block format. These styles begin with the date, followed by the name and address of the person to whom you are writing, a reference line, the salutation, the body, and the complimentary close. See the Internet for format details. Compose and print your letter on a computer, using bright white inkjet paper.
• Introduce yourself. Explain that you are writing to arrange an interview so that you could have the opportunity to discuss positions that may become available in a specific department of the company. If someone referred you, be sure to include his/her name.
• Briefly describe your background and why you are interested in the employer's industry, career field, or organization.
• Indicate that you will follow up with a phone call to see if it will be possible to schedule an interview at a convenient time so that you may bring your résumé and discuss your qualifications.
• Close the letter professionally. For example: "Sincerely," followed by your name. Your letter should have clear contact information, including your complete address, telephone number, and e-mail address.

Other things to keep in mind:

• Do not enclose a résumé—you are just asking for an interview.
• If someone referred you, ask him/her beforehand about the best approach for asking for the interview.

Request a Raise or Promotion

(You may be due for a step up the ladder)

• Don't waste your employer's time. Immediately state the reason that you believe you are qualified to receive a promotion or raise.
• To establish credibility, give examples of your accomplishments, loyalty, years of service, etc. You are providing evidence to build your case.
• Confidently, but respectfully, make your request.
• Thank your employer for taking the time to consider your request.

Request a Specific Type of Information

(You may need copies of public records)

• Get to the point. Tell the reader exactly what type of information you need and politely ask him/her to send it to you. Assure the reader you will pay any customary fees that are involved.
• Provide a brief explanation as to why you need this information. For example: You are compiling your family history and would like a copy of your great grandmother's marriage license.
• Thank the reader. Be sure to provide your contact information (complete address, telephone number, and e-mail address).

Request a Third Party to Compose a Letter on Your Behalf

(You may need a letter of recommendation)

• If necessary, remind the reader how he/she knows you, and briefly review any high points of your relationship. Examples: this person was one of your professors in your M.A. program and gave you an "A" on a research project or he or she was your supervisor at one time and commended you for the quality of your work.
• Clearly describe the type of letter you are requesting. Be specific.
• Give the reader any information, details, and/or explanations that will help in writing the letter. Busy professionals will appreciate it if you provide the framework for the letter. If you take as much work as possible out of the request, you are more likely to get it!
• Tell the reader your projected timeline and say that you will check back at a certain date to see if any more information is needed. Invite the reader to contact you with any questions.
• Thank your reader for his/her time and consideration of your request.

Need help writing your request letter? Say it right with professional-quality request letters. Write with confidence using: Expert help every step of the way Appropriate phrases and sentences Challenging letters made easy You'll get sample request letters for each of these topics: 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 You'll also get sample letters for each of these related topics and more: Accept a request to serve in an honorary position Announce actions to be taken during a strike (management's announcement) Announce an employee training session Announce an imminent strike (labor's announcement) Answer a request for information on a product or service Appeal to higher authorities when complaint letters don't work Approve a request Ask an applicant for credit to submit more information Ask for an investment Ask for personal advice Ask to extend or shorten a deadline Cancel a membership or subscription Change official records Complain about a billing error Complain about harassment Complain about poor service or a faulty product Decline a request for a claim or adjustment Decline a request for a donation Decline a request for credit Decline a request for employment File a warranty claim Inform a customer of an incorrect payment amount and ask for the balance Inform a customer that the check you received was not signed or the payment was not in the envelope Investigate an applicant's credit reference Invite or request suggestions from employees and customers Make an insurance claim Notify an insurance policyholder of a pending cancellation of the policy Remind an organization member to pay a fee, duty, or pledge Respond to a complaint, but needing more information Respond to a job advertisement and request an interview Respond to a request for your resume Respond to a request or application for additional training Transmit equipment or supplies that a company employee has requested Use networking in a job search Write a collection letter Write a fundraising letter Write a letter in a job search Write a persuasive letter that makes a charitable request Writing a letter can be as easy as 1, 2, 3! Find a request letter that fits your needs and copy it directly into Microsoft Word or your favorite word processor. Or let our software guide you step-by-step through the writing process, suggesting sample phrases and sentences for each writing step. In minutes, you can write an effective request letter. Print your request letter and send it!

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NEW Request-Letter Articles!

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