GUIDELINES

  1. It may also be a compliment to someone when you ask him or her for advice because you are making him or her feel that you are confident in his or her impressions. The person is deserving of your trust and must be agreeable to keep your requests as secrets.
  2. Tell him right away that you are asking for advice and make him feel your confidence in his or her help.
  3. Explain in full details your problem.
  4. If possible, propose a more precise communication about the issue.
  5. Tell him that you are anticipating his or her response.

SAMPLE LETTER

[Senders Name]
[Address line]
[State, ZIP Code]

[Letter Date]

[Recipients Name]
[Address line]
[State, ZIP Code]

[Subject: Normally bold, summarizes the intention of the letter] -Optional-


Dear [Recipients Name],

You have known me for a long time now, and I find myself needing some confidential advice. It is of a financial matter, as I am now faced with money problems as I come close to completing my degree.

I need money to pay for the rest of my studies, money that I do not have. I could borrow using government financial aid, or I could work full time for several months. This latter way would of course mean I have fewer debts, and as I already have a loan that I used to pay for my car, it is in many ways my preference.

I am faced with a dilemma, as I do not want to have more debt. I look forward to your response. Thank you for taking the time to read my letter and allowing me to speak to you confidentially.

Sincerely,

[Senders Name]
[Senders Title] -Optional-

[Enclosures: number] - Optional -
cc: [Name of copy recipient] - Optional -

Sample letter asking for advice on a financial matter.

Further things to consider when writing advice letters to mentors

Further things to consider when writing advice letters to mentors

Advice Letters

Advice letters are letters meant to give recommendations or guidance concerning prudent future action. Typically, these letters are written by a person who is regarded as knowledgeable or authoritative. Advice letters can be from a company to clients, managers to subordinates, or employee to employee. People write advice letters to help others make informed decisions and avoid bad actions. Some of the situations where you may want to offer advice through a letter include giving guidance on how to choose a career, advising clients on the best products, or advising a friend on how to deal with an issue. You may also send a letter to a subordinate to advice about certain behavior at work, etc.

When writing advice letters, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First things first, state the reason for this letter and maintain a formal and truthful tone. Communicate the advice being asked of you clearly and precisely, making sure that there is nothing that the reader can hold against you. State why you think it is important that the reader follows your suggestion. Where necessary, quote references you have consulted. Before closing the letter, you can ask for a reply.

Letters to Mentors

Letters to mentors are letters you write to your mentor, or any other trusted and experienced adviser. Mostly, these are thank-you letters to show gratitude to the person for mentoring and guiding you. Sometimes it could be hard to find the right words to express yourself to someone from who you have learned so much and who means so much to you. Don't worry. You don't have to write a whole book to show that you are grateful. You only need a short message to say thank you. Many people would choose to say thank you using chats or text messages, but nothing beats that old-fashioned letter. A letter is something the mentor can keep for years and read it over and over again.

Letters to mentors are informal and usually have a casual tone. Address your letter warmly, making it personal and sincere. Explain the purpose of your letter. Mention how you cherish the recipient's advice and how you have benefited from it. Enquire after the recipient to show that you care about him/her. To wrap up nicely, let the recipient know that you appreciate his/her advice one last time. Close the letter by signing your name.

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