PRACTICE

Date: 2015-10-07; view: 477.

2.2.1. A retail store has received an inquiry from an economics research bureau requesting a schedule of salaries. The reply sent by the personnel department is given below, with an analysis of the reply. Write a revised letter eliminating the faults pointed out in the analysis. Compare your letter with your group mates'.

Analysis of Letter

1. Two paragraphs begin with "we." Why not start the first paragraph with "Thank you for your letter . . . "?

2. The first sentence of the second paragraph is negative and a rather blunt refusal of the request. It is better to lead up to a refusal in some tactful way rather than to make the refusal early in the letter.

3. This phrase creates a bad effect since it implies that the company is suspicious of the inquirer's intention.

4. Cliché.

5. Negative phrase—creates bad impression and fails to sell good will.

6. Last sentence should not lead into complimentary close.

2.2.2. Below you will see parts of three letters of enquiry. Put the correct word or phrase in each blank. Choose from the following list. Use each item once only.