Business communication in an online world

Question

Help. I'm writing/editing a letter of inquiry for a grant proposal and I have hit a stumbling block. The letters must be sent via email. I'm rather unfamiliar with business email etiquette. Should I use a formal business letter form, with a double header and a "To Whom It May Concern" salutation? Another question, how long should this letter be? I appreciate any assistance.
Thanks

MountainHiker · Accepted Answer

Hi Crys,

I suspect opinions vary on this, but if I am writing a formal letter through e-mail then I follow all the same protocols as I normally would.

Actually, I go one step further. I write my message in MS Word, then change it into PDF format, and attach it as an enclosure. I also have the document in the e-mail. In effect, I am giving the message in two different formats.

The reason for including the "text" in the e-mail is so that the person need not open the attachment. And the reason for including the attachment is so that they can have all the proper formatting etc., if they want to print and share the document.

To Whom It May Concern: --> If appropriate, yes, use it. [be sure to include the colon]

Length-->Short as possible to deliver an effective message. Peopel are busy.

Hope that helps.

MountainHiker

Business communication in an online world

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