Although apparently anyone can be familiar with writing a letter, it is a routine that is no longer so entrenched in today's society. Given the birth of other forms of communication and exchange of information, the letter has ceased to be so present in the interaction between friends or relatives who live far away. On the contrary, the structure of the letter is present in the professional field. Undoubtedly, a candidate can use this structure to write an introductory message that complements and enhances the best version of their resume. How to start formal letter in english? Basic tips.
Sometimes, the writing of the letter poses an added complexity for the author of the same. This is the case when the message must be written in English. It is something that happens frequently nowadays since many people look for a job in another country, opt for an international scholarship or want to achieve a goal which is directly related to knowledge of the language. In case of sending an important letter, it is essential to carefully review the document to correct any errors.
What is a formal letter and what are its characteristics?
A formal letter, as the term indicates, is distinguished from one that has a more informal and close tone. The formal language is one that is used frequently in the professional and academic field. Thus, It is convenient to integrate that tone in the communication that occurs in the context of a job interview process or in the presentation of a candidacy for a job position. In the same way, you can also adopt that tone in different procedures that are carried out in writing in the academic context.
If you want to write a letter in English, keep several points in mind to develop an initial outline. Identify the objective of the message, that is, the subject. What is the length necessary to develop the different points of the letter (probably you will not need to write more than one page). In the same way, the letter in English must have an introduction, a development and its corresponding outcome (essential parts that, on the other hand, complement each other perfectly).
How to greet in a formal letter in English
Well, the beginning of a letter in English, or in any other language, has a special relevance. Due to its own location in the text, it serves to connect with the interlocutor and make a good first impression. If you know someone in your environment who has a perfect command of English, or you go to private classes to learn the language, You can count on external help to solve any doubt.
What is the formula used to start a formal letter in English? The greeting that directs attention to the interlocutor is key to personalizing the information in the text. Well then, your letter can start as follows: Dear Mr or Ms. Accompany the corresponding option by the last name of the person to whom the message is addressed. Generally, is the tone used to initiate communication with someone with whom you do not have a contact or with whom you have not had a previous conversation. The formula «Dear», on the other hand, is closer. Therefore, it should be avoided in a formal letter.
On the other hand, it is important to contextualize the reason for the letter at the beginning of it. For this reason, you can also introduce some explanation about it at the beginning of the text. The description of the reason can begin as follows: «I'm writing you because». Therefore, pay special attention to the greeting and the presentation of the reason that led to the sending of the letter to the interlocutor.