Why using an informal tone in your business letter can be beneficial
As the business world becomes increasingly fast-paced and competition ramps up, it’s becoming more important to ensure that your communication is clear and concise. Although most of us have been taught to write business letters that are formal, stuffy and sometimes even cold, there are actually several reasons why using an informal tone in your business correspondence could potentially be beneficial.
The problem with overly formal language
Firstly, let’s focus on the problems that arise when you write overly formal business letters. When we try to be too formal, it’s easy to fall into the trap of using complicated language and convoluted sentences. This is particularly problematic when you’re trying to communicate a complex idea or concept. By trying to make your language more formal, you could end up confusing your reader and undermining the clarity of your message.
Likewise, using overly formal language can also make your correspondence seem stiff, impersonal and lacking in human touch. This can be a major problem when you’re trying to forge lasting relationships with clients, customers, and other important stakeholders. It’s much harder to build trust, rapport, and goodwill when your language is formal, distant, and unapproachable.
The benefits of informal language
Perhaps surprisingly, using an informal tone can actually help rectify many of these problems. By writing in a more conversational tone, you can make your message more accessible and easier to understand. This is particularly important when you’re trying to convey complex ideas, educate customers or colleagues, or introduce a new product or service.
Furthermore, writing in an informal, friendly tone can help build rapport and trust with your readers. It demonstrates that you value their input, and that you’re willing to engage with them on a human level. This can be particularly useful when you’re trying to win a new customer or client, or when you’re trying to preserve an existing relationship.
So, how do you write in an informal tone?
Of course, it’s important to remember that writing informally doesn’t mean being unprofessional. You should still adhere to good spelling and grammar, and avoid using slang or profanity. However, you can write in a more conversational style, using shorter sentences and everyday language that will be easy for your readers to understand.
You can also try injecting some personality into your letters. Use anecdotes, humor, or pop culture references to help your message resonate with your audience. Don’t be afraid to show some enthusiasm or excitement about your product or service – after all, if you’re not passionate about it, why should your readers be?
In conclusion
Although many of us have been taught that formal language is the only acceptable way to write in the business world, there are actually several reasons why adopting an informal tone could be beneficial. By writing in a conversational, accessible style, you can make your message more clear and engaging, build better relationships with your audience, and ultimately achieve better outcomes for your business. So, why not give it a try?
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