Closing Business Letters with Impact: How to End a Business Letter with Finesse
When it comes to writing business letters, the closing is just as important as the opening. A well-crafted closing can leave a lasting impression on the reader, while a poorly written one can undermine the entire message. In this article, we’ll explore how to end a business letter with impact, finesse, and professionalism.
Why the Closing Matters in Business Letters
The closing of a business letter is more than just a polite gesture; it’s an opportunity to reinforce your message, build relationships, and leave a lasting impression. A strong closing can:
- Reiterate your main points
- Emphasize your enthusiasm for the project or proposal
- Show appreciation for the reader’s time and consideration
- Encourage further communication or action
How to End a Business Letter: Best Practices
So, how to end a business letter? Here are some best practices to keep in mind:
- Be sincere and genuine in your closing
- Use a professional tone and language
- Keep it concise and to the point
- Use active voice and present tense
- Include a clear call-to-action (CTA)
Types of Business Letter Closings
There are several types of closings you can use in a business letter, depending on the tone and purpose of your message. Here are a few examples:
| Closing Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Formal Closing | Suitable for formal business letters, e.g., “Sincerely,” “Best regards” |
| Informal Closing | Suitable for informal business letters, e.g., “Thanks,” “Cheers” |
| Appreciation Closing | Expresses gratitude and appreciation, e.g., “Thank you for your time,” “I appreciate your consideration” |
Examples of Effective Business Letter Closings
Here are some examples of effective business letter closings:
- “Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.”
- “I appreciate your feedback and look forward to discussing this further.”
- “Best regards, [Your Name]”
How to End a Business Letter with a Strong Call-to-Action
A strong call-to-action (CTA) is essential in a business letter closing. It encourages the reader to take action and respond to your message. Here are some tips on how to end a business letter with a strong CTA:
- Be specific and clear about what you want the reader to do
- Use action verbs, e.g., “Please respond by,” “I encourage you to”
- Make it easy for the reader to take action, e.g., provide a link or contact information
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ending a Business Letter
When it comes to how to end a business letter, there are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Don’t be too casual or informal
- Don’t use jargon or technical terms that may confuse the reader
- Don’t forget to proofread and edit your closing
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, how to end a business letter is just as important as the opening. A well-crafted closing can leave a lasting impression on the reader, while a poorly written one can undermine the entire message. By following the best practices and tips outlined in this article, you can create effective business letter closings that drive results.
For more information on business writing and communication, visit Lost Cities. You can also check out Inc.com for more tips and resources on business writing and communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to end a formal business letter?
The best way to end a formal business letter is with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Regards.”
How do I end a business letter with a call-to-action?
To end a business letter with a call-to-action, be specific and clear about what you want the reader to do, use action verbs, and make it easy for the reader to take action.
Can I use humor in a business letter closing?
It’s generally not recommended to use humor in a business letter closing, as it can come across as unprofessional. However, if you’re sure that the reader will appreciate it, use it sparingly and with caution.