Friday, April 17, 2015

Write A Letter Requesting A Favor

Keep your letter brief and to the point.


Asking for a favor may not be easy, but it might be in your best interest, especially if someone you trust has the expertise to help you resolve a financial matter. A prime example: asking an acquaintance who used to work as a loan officer to read a hardship letter before you send it to your lender. In this case, he may have read dozens of these letters and can provide valuable advice. Put your request in writing and adopt a tone that is confident and positive, resisting the temptation to apologize for requesting the favor.


Instructions


1. Center your name and contact information at the top of your request letter, using a larger font than in the rest of the letter. The goal is to present yourself as accessible; you want to make a response as easy as possible for the recipient.


2. Open your letter with a friendly greeting and a reference to your personal relationship. Then briefly state why you are writing and the specifics of the favor you seek. In this example, you would explain why you are writing the hardship letter and when it is due.


3. Explain why you are seeking the recipient's help. In this example, you would point out that he has experience evaluating hardship letters and you would appreciate it if he would edit a copy of yours. This is called an "emotional appeal." To succeed, you should appeal to the value of the recipient's banking experience.


4. Express your willingness to reciprocate the favor. Remind the recipient of your skills and cite some examples of how you could help him. For example, if you work as a graphic designer, extend a reasonable offer for your services. Do not make promises you cannot keep. Say you "welcome the opportunity to reciprocate the kindness."


5. Offer to answer any questions the recipient may have about your request or the particulars of the hardship letter. Tell him the best time of day and way to contact you. Thank him for considering your request and say you will follow up in a few days.

Tags: your request, hardship letter, example would, this example, this example would, your letter