Letter of Request

I. Definition

• A request is a letter asking the recipient to do something he or she does not have to do, may not have time to do, or may not want to do.

• Therefore, pay particular attention to the structure given for each letter; these are time-tested formulas for persuasive writing that have been proven to work.

• A letter is an ideal medium for requesting a favor. Making the request in writing allows the other person to think it over in the privacy of her own home or office, without the pressure of you standing there waiting for an answer, or the potential for embarrassment (for both of you) if you are turned down.

Tips for Requesting a Favor

• • Ask politely. Do not demand or threaten.

• • Show the reader what’s in it for her. Prove your case.

• • Say exactly what you hope she will do for you.