Business Letters for Busy People part 26 pdf

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HAPTER 14
C
Postcard Correspondence
239

Postcards are cost-effective correspondence tools that
carry a lot of power. With the threat of mail-related terrorism,
people are apprehensive about opening mail. Postcards can
send a message, share information or promote an event easily,
and yet avoid creating anxiety about a threat for the recipient.
This chapter has sample postcards you might choose to
compose. The types of postcards included are:
• Seasonal Promotion
• Acknowledging a Customer for a Special Occasion
• Invitation
• Reminder
At the side of the page, you will find a brief explanation
of each part of the postcard. The first example identifies each
section of the message. Subsequent messages identify only
changes to the basic format.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Postcards are used as quick, informal forms of
communication. They grab the recipient’s attention, are easy to
read and act on, and generally are more cost-effective than a
formal letter with envelope. The ideal postcard is visually
appealing, with a direct, concise message.
Step 1: Plan the main purpose of your correspondence. Keep
it brief and to the point.
Step 2: Use catchy phrasing or specialized text to draw and
keep the reader’s attention. Write with clarity and
creativity.
Step 3: Remember that a postcard can be viewed by anyone at
any time. It is inappropriate to use this medium of

communication to announce or share sensitive or
confidential information.
Note: At the end of this chapter is a checklist to use when
you write a postcard.
Business Letters for Busy People
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Seasonal Promotion
This postcard is used by a business to inform customers of a
special promotion.
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Postcard Correspondence
Capture the Spirit of Christmas!
Join us Saturday, December 2, for an afternoon of warmth
and glad tidings as we welcome artist Gloria Patrick!
Gloria will be showcasing the latest addition to her sculpture
series. “Angels Bending Near the Earth” is a breathtaking
piece! Be sure to see it and visit with the artist about her
work!
December 2 from 1:00 to 4:00
The Marketplace
1445 Broadway, Minneapolis, MN 42535
Announcement
of Event
Confirmation of Date,
Time and Place
Business Location
Information
Acknowledging a Customer for
a Special Occasion

This postcard acknowledges a customer’s birthday with a
special discount.
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Business Letters for Busy People
It’s Your Birthday!
Let us help you celebrate!
Present this card and we will give you 15% off
your purchase as our special gift to you!
(Sale merchandise not included.)
Valid for 60 days.
Happy Birthday!
from
Gracie’s Gifts and Collectibles
2891 Clairmont • Jacksonville, Florida 35695
(904) 555-6301
Occasion
Special Offer
Business Logo
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Invitation
This business is using a postcard to invite customers to an
open house.
Postcard Correspondence
You’re Invited!
The Toulles House is having an Open House.
Please join us for caroling, cocoa and cookies
on Sunday, November 30,
anytime between 2:00 and 5:00 o’clock in the afternoon.
Toulles House

1601 Lexington Drive
Nantucket Sound, Massachusetts 21807
508.555.0202
Invitation
Event Information
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Reminder
A postcard can be a very effective way of providing a quick,
informal reminder.
Business Letters for Busy People
14
Just a Reminder!
Your special order is ready for pickup!
Please call to make an appointment.
Harvey’s
Books and Papers
10 Lindlewood Lane • Campaign, Washington 98940
509.555.0088
Reminder Information
Request
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Checklist
• Did you make your message brief and to the point?
• Did you use format and text that will catch the
recipient’s attention?
• Did you write with clarity and creativity?
• Did you check the content of your message for sensitivity,
confidentiality and privacy issues?
• Did you include the background information, event

description, location and contact information so the
recipient understands the purpose of your message?
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Postcard Correspondence

PPENDIX
A
247
Each example lists the following information in the
format shown:
Addressee
Form of Address
Salutation
The eight broad categories of address are:
• Professional Ranks and Titles
• Federal, State and Local Government Officials
• Military Ranks
• Military Abbreviations
• Diplomats
• British Nobility
• Clerical and Religious Orders
• College and University Officials