GUIDELINES
- If you wish to get the reader's attention through a persuasive memo, you must keep his/her feelings in mind. Think how the reader will react to what you say and how can you convince him/her. You should carefully decide that how much emotional appeal will be suitable and to what extent you should use logical arguments.
- Highlight the issue in the beginning.
- State what action you expect from the reader.
- Give reasons about why the reader should follow your suggestion. State what the reader will gain from cooperating with you.
- Give a call to action and provide more information.
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],
Hi Eve, I know you got off on the wrong foot with the coordinators of the upcoming fashion show. As head of the modeling agency, I am aware that you have spent so many busy and sleepless nights in preparation for this event and that one of the models is your cousin. Unfortunately, the coordinators feel that for this particular show, your cousin is not the right fit.
Being a friend who is looking out for your welfare, I suggest that you avoid communicating with the coordinators. Their decision is final, and they are firm about it. Please don't do anything that might ruin your chances for better and brighter opportunities in this business.
There is nothing in it for me in this whole misunderstanding. I am just sincerely concerned about you as a friend whom I value.
Sincerely,
[Senders Name]
[Senders Title] -Optional-
[Enclosures: number] - Optional -
cc: [Name of copy recipient] - Optional -
Persuasion letter to avoid favors from event coordinators.
Further things to consider when writing persuasive letters to volunteers
Persuasive Letters
Persuasive letters are letters written to persuade others towards accepting the senders' issues, perspectives, or interests. Such letters are meant to influence the recipients' thoughts and actions. The recipient can be organizations such as banks, schools, and NGOs, or individuals such as CEOs, government officials, directors, etc. Whether you want to solve a problem with your bank or you want someone to help you or do something for you, Persuasive letters can get the job done. All you need to do it to convince the recipient to agree with your side of the story.
Before writing persuasive letters you need to brainstorm what you want, why you want it, and any arguments against you. Be brief and use clear, uncluttered sentences. State your main points in the opening statements. Go straight to the point and emphasize the importance of your request. Support your request with logical information. If necessary, provide a few testimonials that relate to your argument. Be friendly, polite, and factual, and refrain from using overly emotional language and judgmental statements. Agree to meet in the middle or compromise. End the letter with a powerful statement that persuades the recipient to be on your side.
Letters to Volunteers
Letters to volunteers are letters written to people who freely offer to undertake a task or take part in an enterprise. The recipient of such letters can be any person who wishes to contribute his/her effort, time, or even money for a cause without expecting anything in return. Letters calling for volunteers need to be concise, clear, and to the point. Your letter is unlikely to hold a volunteer's attention if it is six pages long with every detail about the work or event. It is, therefore, advisable to include only the details the recipient needs to decide whether to pitch in or not.
Letters to volunteers should be formal and must follow the normal business letter format. Begin your letter by thanking the recipient for his/her continued support. State the reason you need the recipient's services or contribution and the cause your work will be supporting. If you are running an event, mention what it entails and when it will take place. Describe the kind of commitment you are looking for; whether you just require help for one day or need an ongoing commitment. Provide your contact details and close by thanking the recipient for his/her time.
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