A British firm which wants to expand its sales to Scandinavian countries asks a Norwegian business associate to provide help and hospitality on the occasion of a visit to Norway by the company's sales manager. Notice that the letter does not open with the request, but a gentle reminder of the companies' association. The request is also framed in general terms rather than making specific demands.
Dear Mr Deksen,
Thank you for your last consignment. You will be pleased to hear that we are processing another order to be sent to you within the next few weeks.
The purpose of this letter, however, is to ask if you could offer any assistance to our overseas sales manager, Mr Michael Hobbs, who will be visiting Oslo from 11 to 17 May.
You may remember that when you were here a few months ago I mentioned that we intended to expand our sales. We are now looking at the potential of the Scandinavian market, and Michael Hobbs1 trip is part of our investigations into the possibilities of our exporting to Scandinavia.
I wondered if, while he was in your city, you would be able to introduce him to wholesalers and retailers in our trade who may be able to give him information with regard to the type of products that we would need to offer to the Norwegian market. He will also be interested in marketing, demand, importing procedures and any other information that would be useful to us.
I understand of course that you are very busy, but if it is not too inconvenient, may I tell him that he may contact you at some time during his stay? The help would certainly be appreciated, and reciprocated if the opportunity arises.
Yours sincerely,
14.3.2
Letter of introduction
This letter would be presented to Mr Deksen in person.
The bearer of this letter is Mr Michael Hobbs, our overseas sales manager, who is visiting Oslo on our behalf to investigate our export possibilities to Norway.
Thank you for your letter of 10 April in which you offered to help him. I will appreciate any assistance you can give, or suggestions you make.
Yours sincerely,
14.3.3
Letter of thanks
Dear Mr Deksen,
Thank you very much for assisting Michael Hobbs while he was in Oslo.
I know he has already written to you expressing his gratitude, but I would like to add my own appreciation. The introductions you made for him and the contacts and information he gained will be extremely useful in our Scandinavian export programme.
If I can offer you any similar service in the future, please contact me. Yours sincerely,
14.3.4
An invitation
Dear Mr Grant,
We would like to invite you to attend our award ceremony at Claremont College which is being held on 14 December this year. The proceedings will begin about 2.00 and end around 5.00 in the afternoon, after which a dinner will be given at 7.00 for our prominent visitors.
As one of our distinguished ex-students we would like you to address the parents and students with a short speech of your choice before handing out the awards.
Although we realize you are busy we hope you can find time to accept the invitation and look forward to seeing you.