GUIDELINES
- In the case of error that affects many people or a customer complains about a mistake then it's better to give an explanation. In this letter, you need to explain why the error occurred. Apologize for it, if it's appropriate. Provide details but don't make it lengthy.
- Give an explanation of how the error occurred.
- Tell the reader how you will rectify the situation.
- You should apologize if it's important. Offer an indemnity of some sort if it's appropriate.
SAMPLE LETTER
[Address line]
[State, ZIP Code]
[Letter Date]
[Address line]
[State, ZIP Code]
[Subject: Normally bold, summarizes the intention of the letter] -Optional-
Dear [Recipients Name],
We would like to apologize for having sent the wrong laptop accessory to you. I understand you ordered two portable hard disks, but instead we sent a portable CD-ROM. We are sorry for any frustration this may have caused. The correct item has already been sent to your office address. You will receive it five days from the date indicated in this letter. Please return to us the portable hard disks using the prepaid pouch enclosed in the package that you will receive. Also included in the package is a gift coupon as our way of compensating for this inconvenience. Thank you for your patience.
Sincerely,
[Senders Name]
[Senders Title] -Optional-
[Enclosures: number] - Optional -
cc: [Name of copy recipient] - Optional -
Explain an error you have made. Sample letter.
Further things to consider when writing error letters to customers
Error Letters
Error letters are letters written to point out mistakes that someone has made and try to correct them. Some mistakes are more serious and bigger than others, and some even have financial repercussions. However, acknowledging and trying to fix them shows the recipient that he/she can trust you, even if the mistakes made suggested otherwise. It does not matter if it is a misprint in coupon discounts, a billing error, an error in newspaper listing, or an invoice error. Drafting an error letter will help make things right again and improve the chances of maintaining the relationship you had with the recipient.
Error letters are simply a means to acknowledge that an error was made. Therefore, they should be written as soon as possible after the incident. Start the letter by clearly pointing out the error. Give details on how you plan to rectify the error. Maintain a considerate and respectful tone because you probably have caused some inconvenience. Explain how the error occurred and apologize if necessary. If the error was made by the recipient, point out the error and request him/her to correct it. Close the letter with a positive note that helps to build confidence.
Letters to Customers
Letters to customers are letters written by businesses to people or organizations who buy goods and services from these businesses. These letters can be addressed to specific customers or to all customers, depending on the issue. If you own a business, there are many times you may find it necessary to write to your customers. For example, you may want to send apology letters for billing errors, collection letters to those who owe you money, follow-up letters after initial customers' visits, marketing letters to promote conference events, etc. Constantly writing to your customers is essential as it makes the customers feel valued and strengthens the company-customer relationship.
All letters to customers are formal. Therefore you should maintain a professional tone. Address the customer by his/her name instead of "Dear valued customer". Thank the person for being your customer. Convey your message clearly and concisely without mixing information. Separate important information and label it with subheadings. Avoid putting off the customer with detailed terms and conditions. Instead, put these on a different page. Tell the recipient how to contact you and how to stop receiving letters. Conclude with a positive remark. Write your name and hand sign the letter.
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