22
Nov 10

To Peers






Guidelines : To Peers

Complaining to Peers

Guidelines and Alternate Phrases

Let the reader know immediately your exact complaint.

View your letter as a request for action or cooperation rather than a complaint. Find positive motivators, if possible, such as smoother operations, safety, savings in time and dollars, and goodwill from outsiders.

Because we are all so very busy, it is easy to forget the seemingly minor details that make our equipment operate efficiently. Would you give special attention to the following matters so we can all save our maintenance dollars?

Bill, can you help me save us all a little time?

I know you’re looking forward to the commissions that can be generated from such a deal–if we are successful in finding a way to solve the customer’s current problem.

Give enough detail so the person stepping in to remedy the situation knows or recalls what has happened in the past. But be brief; avoid throwing in irrelevant details about how much trouble the situation has caused you–unless such detail is pertinent to correcting the problem or creates urgency. Always give names or dates involved and copies of past correspondence for the reader’s convenience in following and verifying what you say. By informing the reader of your previous action, you eliminate repetition of those non-solutions.

Suggest, even though you can’t command, the specific action you want your reader to take to resolve the matter; do not coach the solution in vague generalities. If you have no solutions to the problem yourself, then say so. Such humbleness gives a more conciliatory tone.

I must admit I don’t have any solutions at this point. But I do know we need to discuss this seriously.

Would you send two additional copies of each month’s report?

Will you give me your answer by May 2?

I suggest your representative make another sales call on the client to explain this policy.

Don’t sound self-righteous or aggressive; use a conciliatory tone. First, that means not assuming the harm or mistake has been intentional. Don’t take away all your reader’s possible “excuses” for the situation; allow him or her to save face. (There’s no harm done in his saving face as long as the problem gets corrected.) Second, use “I messages” to minimize attack on the other person: “I do not feel my staff and I are up-to-date on the project or have had sufficient input about our specific needs.” Not: “You have not kept us up-to-date on the project, and you have not allowed us sufficient input about our specific needs.”

Use passive voice when describing someone’s error; this construction prevents an accusing tone: “The entries in step 2 were miscalculated.” Not: “You miscalculated the entries in step 2.”

Finally, include courtesy words such as please, thank you, and we would appreciate.

Use humor when you can to attract attention to the problem and make the corrective action less arduous. Make sure, however, you know your audience so your humor is not offensive or does not make light of a situation others consider “no laughing matter.”

Show confidence that the complaint will be handled appropriately.

End on a business-as-usual note; reestablish rapport.

If I can help you further in solving the problem, let me know.

Please join me in our efforts to make this discouraging situation an ultimate success.

I hope the next time we correspond, it can be under less difficult circumstances.

I hope we have this situation all cleared up by the next time our paths cross.

Give my regards to your staff and thank them for the extra effort this resolution will require.

Although we were caught in a somewhat uncomfortable situation, things should improve drastically and soon.

Example 1: Example letter for Complaint to peers

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Millard,

We have spoken on the phone twice about the circuit outages over here in our building. I have decided it might be helpful to you if I supplied the attached list of sites with reference numbers. Should I expect the job to be completed by Monday?

If not, please let me know by Friday because I will have to readjust the weekly work schedule of all our people to accommodate the delay.

Thank you,

Buford

Example 2: To Peers Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Ken:

During the past four months, my customer has requested help from us on four different BT2 problems. He also asked for on-site assistance April 6-7, which was rejected. The four BT2 problems brought his complete system down nine times; twice I had to help him completely rebuild his database.

I have absolutely no expertise in solving the problem and am at your mercy in letting him know if we can come up with an answer. The customer has come to the conclusion we do not appreciate or value his business at all. I know you are as concerned about retaining this $200,000 contract as I am.

Would you please call me Thursday afternoon to discuss your ideas and projected deadlines for this overdue help we owe our customer?

Sincerely,

Example 3: Letter of Peers

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Meg:

We missed your input at last week’s status meeting. I reported on developments from your division, but the information may not have been completely accurate.

Representation at the meeting by all areas is the best way I know to ensure a forum for timely discussion of information and alterations in the project plans–alterations that may affect more than one area.

Please be sure to have a representative from your division attend the July 8 meeting at 2 p.m. in N-10.

Sincerely,

Example 4: Sample letter for Complaint to peers

Memorandum

TO:

FROM:

DATE:

SUBJECT: Computerized Purchasing System

Frankly, John, I am dissatisfied with the development of our mutual project to computerize the purchasing system. I do not feel my staff and I are up-to-date on the project or have had sufficient input about our specific needs. Therefore, I don’t want to proceed with the plans until we talk further.

I would like to meet with you , Tom Brown and Fred Smith on Thursday morning at 8:00. Please contact my office if there is a schedule conflict.

On January 6 after a meeting with Ted Jones, I enclosed in a memo to him our comments on the data printout form he was proposing. However, I’ve had no written response from him or subsequent discussions about how our needs can be met with the programming. Then on February 16, we noted and questioned the purpose of your requisition 1224-55 for contract programming services. I talked with Merle White by phone, and she assured me this requisition had nothing to do with our project but rather was for work done for the Indonesian group. So, of course, when Tom Brown and Fred Smith visited me this week and wanted to know where I wanted two data processing consoles installed, I asked them to wait until I had further discussions with you to make that decision.

Attached are copies of the past correspondence so you can easily follow the development of events.

I look forward to our meeting so we can get on with this project.


22
Nov 10

About Product Quality












Guidelines : Accepting

Complaining About Product Quality

Guidelines

  • Set a friendly tone while explaining that you are dissatisfied with the product or service.
  • Explain in detail the nature of your complaint, citing specific instances and providing any supporting documentation.
  • State what action you expect to be taken as a result of your letter.
  • Offer possible solutions for rectifying the problem.
  • Ask for a prompt response.

Example 1: Sample letter for product quality

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State, Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Mr. Martin:

On July 8, 1995, we purchased the Electrica 500 phone system, model number 4358 for our office. Unfortunately, the system has repeatedly disconnected callers during transfers to specific offices. Our receptionist has used the Electrica system at her previous job; in fact, it was she who suggested your company to us. Due to her extensive experience with your system, we feel it is unlikely the disconnections are occurring due to human error.

Our service contract states we are entitled to free service calls for the first three months after installation of the Electrica phone system, but we have been unable to reach anyone in order to schedule a service call.

Because of the difficulties with both the phones and the support services, we have decided to purchase a different phone system. Our service contract states that should we decide to terminate usage of the Electrica 500 within the first two weeks of service, we are entitled to a full refund. We are therefore attaching a copy of our invoice so we may receive our full refund of $2,500. Please contact us concerning the removal of the system.

Sincerely,

Example 2: Letter for product quality

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State, Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Ms. Young,

On July 2, we purchased an Ultimate Brand color printer (serial number 867541) from your store. We have enjoyed wonderful results, until yesterday, when an odd problem occurred.

We had been printing a three-color graph of blue, red and green. However, the graph came out black, pink and purple. We have checked our ink cartridge and can find nothing obviously wrong. We have also been unable to locate anything in the manual which tells how to correct this problem.

As we are new users of Ultimate Brand, we are unsure of what else to check on the printer, or what else we should try to do. Any suggestions you could give us would be most welcome. We can be reached at (567) 423-4343.

Sincerely,

Example 3:Example letter for product quality

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State, Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Mr. Martinez:

On July 16, your company installed a 16-line voice mail system at our office. The installer programmed our extension numbers for us, and provided our office with an instruction manual which explained how to reprogram the extensions should we need to do so.

The system worked well the first week. However, during this past week it began routing the wrong message to four different voice mail boxes. We have tried reprogramming the system in an attempt to correct this situation ourselves, but have been unable to successfully send the proper mail to:

• Ms. Rialto #4386
• Ms. Meyers #4387
• Mr. Tate #4389
• Mrs. Gerry #4390

We suspect there is an internal problem with the system, and would appreciate your expertise in the matter.

As these four individuals rely heavily on their voice mail, we would like to request a service person be scheduled to come to our office no later than tomorrow afternoon.

Thank you for your attention in this matter.

Sincerely,

Example 4: Product quality Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State, Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Customer Service:

After successfully installing our new OfficePower CD ROM package, we sat back to enjoy a graphics program we had also purchased. We spent an hour browsing through the various graphics, then decided to try a different one of graphics program. Unfortunately, we were unable to get the first graphics CD to eject.

After trying all the related troubleshooting suggestions given in the manual, we are at a loss as to what we should do. Someone in the office has suggested taking it in to be serviced, but we thought we would contact your department first to see if there was another alternative.

Thank you for your assistance in this matter.

Sincerely,

Example 5: Letter for quality of product

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State, Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Janis,

As you know, we have rented our First Rate copier (serial number 9804-221) from your company for the last five years. Not only have we been happy with its performance, but we have also learned how to solve most of the everyday problems that occur over the course of a copier’s life. This time, though, we are stuck.

Yesterday the copier began printing every page almost completely black. We have tried changing the contrast, shaking down the toner, replacing the toner cartridge altogether, and even restarting the copier and trying everything all over. Nothing has worked.

Unfortunately, we have a major presentation due by Wednesday of next week and will be unable to complete all of the necessary handouts if we cannot get this situation resolved immediately. We are sorry for the short notice, but given all of the wonderful service we have received from you over the past five years, we feel sure you will understand the urgency of our situation.

Regards,

Example 6: Letter about product quality

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State, Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Mr. Busey:

We have just installed the new OfficeExact software package you sold us two days ago. We received a message saying the software was successfully installed, but when we tried to open the application, we received a General Protection Error 005 and our entire system shut down. We have been unable to restart it since. As we have purchased all of our previous software from you, we assumed our systems were compatible.

We are requesting you send technical support immediately to assist our systems analyst. Our office is at a complete standstill due to this problem, and I am sure you understand the need to get us up and running as soon as possible.

Sincerely,

Example 7: Example letters for complaint about the quality of product

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State, Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Blackwood Camera:

We have just received our new Holland Epic enlargers for our darkroom. Upon setting them up, however, we realized the lenses on three of the four enlargers were badly scratched.

We would therefore like to request under the terms of our warranty plan, three (3) new Holland Epic lens (free of charge).

Furthermore, since we are not responsible for the damages to the lens, and are now behind schedule on an important job order, we are requesting the lenses be shipped next day air via Atlas Air Freight at no charge to our company.

Please call our office at (800) 558-8879–Ext. 6240, to verify shipping arrangements.

Sincerely,

Example 8: Letter for complaint about the quality of product

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State, Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Connect Plus,

We have just been informed by a business associate that when they attempt to e-mail us, they receive an “Undeliverable Mail” message. They checked to ensure they had the proper address and have still been unable to get anything delivered to us.

When we had your system installed on July 9, we requested our address to be as follows:

starmakers@connectplus.com

We are sure you realize the problems an incorrect address in your system could pose for our business. We feel confident you will be able to correct this for us immediately.

Sincerely,

Example 9:Complaint about the quality of product Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State, Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Mrs. Melrose:

On July 2, 1996, we purchased a 645 Plus fax machine, serial number 74331 from your company. We have repeatedly had problems with the paper tray jamming when halfway closed. After several calls to customer service, I realized we needed to see about obtaining either a replacement part or a new fax machine.

Amy Torello, the customer service representative I spoke with on July 6, 1996, suggested I contact you concerning replacement issues. However, I have been unable to reach you by phone. Perhaps it would be easier for you to contact me. I can be reached at (555) 634-8971, ext. 250.

We have diverted all incoming faxes to another area in our office, which has caused an inconvenience. We would appreciate your assistance in resolving this matter before the end of the week.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Example 10: Example letters about the quality of product

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State, Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Ben:

Yes, you are receiving yet another plea for help from our mechanically-challenged office!

As you will remember from all the installation questions we had, we purchased a Galaxy Image scanner from your company on July 6, 1997. While it is still scanning documents clearly, it has begun to emit a loud, high-pitched whine each time it scans a page.

Does this mean something is going to break soon, regardless of how well it’s working now? Office personnel (including myself) reviewed the “Troubleshooting” section of the manual, and we were unable to find even the most remote explanation as to why the scanner is making such a horrendous noise.

Fortunately, we know that you are better than any manual when it comes to figuring these things out! And given the amount of material we are now scanning in the office, we need to be advised immediately as to what we should do. Please call us at (555) 482-2990. Thanks once again!

Regards,


22
Nov 10

About poor Service









Guidelines : About poor Service

Complaining about Poor Service, Defective or Inferior Products

Guidelines and Alternate Phrases

  • Summarize the problem briefly, specifically, and clearly. Include all information basic to the problem or resolution such as complete names, addresses, phone numbers, full description of the product or service, dates, places, amounts, methods of payment, previous correspondence, and file numbers. Include enough detail so a previously uninvolved reader can understand what has happened, but do avoid irrelevant detail that will only obscure the real issues.
  • State the facts of your complaint in an organized, easy-to-follow format. A bulleted list is an effective way to give specifics. In most situations, a once-upon-a-time format is not an appropriate arrangement of facts or issues.
  • Decide what specific action you want and firmly stick with it. Don’t sound wishy-washy in what you will accept as restitution.
  • Please remove the $48 charge from my account.
  • Please send a replacement tray by overnight mail.
  • I will appreciate receiving an explanation and an apology from the service representative.
  • Please send a replacement part immediately.
  • We ask you correct the situation by closing the old account and establishing an entirely new one.
  • We suggest you discuss with your staff the importance of a prompt response in such emergency situations.
  • In the future, please send all the authorizations directly to me for my signature before beginning any work projects on our behalf.
  • We have written you about these subscriptions on two previous occasions. If the changes cannot be made by the next issue (March), please cancel all three subscriptions.
  • If we can make these two changes in the printed form, I’m confident we can reduce our internal costs by as much as 50 percent.
  • Be firm about any agreed-upon deadline with regard to any delayed response you have been promised.
  • I’ll expect to hear from you by Friday.
  • As you confirmed, I will be looking for the replacement shipment within 10 days.
  • As you suggested, I will wait to hear from Mr. Cox on August 15 about what adjustments he will make on the price.
  • Sound factual, not emotional.
  • My calls have not been returned. (Not: The return calls have never materialized.)
  • As you know, we have a $200,000 investment in this equipment, and we must have it operate dependably 24 hours a day. (Not: We have a $200,000 investment in this equipment; we would like to have it work occasionally.)
  • Assume a confident tone about a suitable resolution. Avoid aggressive or sarcastic statements. Assume the reader will give you a fair deal until he or she proves otherwise.
  • I know you will want to correct the situation immediately.
  • I was sure if I pointed out the difficulties to you personally, you would make every effort to solve the problem.
  • I hope you can restore our confidence in your product and service.
  • You have given us excellent service in past years, and we want to continue to depend on you for our data processing needs.
  • We feel confident you can correct the structure with minimal expense.
  • You have always been fair in your dealings with our organization, and we have every confidence you will decide to make an adjustment in this situation.
  • If we haven’t heard from you by August 5, we will assume you prefer to cancel the project altogether. I hope that’s not the case.
  • We appreciate your attention to this detail.
  • We are eager to hear how you think the problem can be corrected.
  • Let us know if you need further information to verify the claims we have presented here.
  • We are looking forward to continuing our relationship on future projects.
  • We believe we can count on your best efforts in this regard.
  • Thank you for your usual attention to our concerns.
  • If follow-up letters become necessary to gain the reader’s cooperation, become stronger in stating your next course of action while maintaining an objective tone.
  • If we don’t hear from you by August 6, we will be turning the problem over to our legal department.
  • We will be forced to cancel our account with your firm if we do not have a suitable resolution by August 6.
  • Be sure to attach any necessary documentation for your claims such as invoices, receipts, canceled checks, order numbers, authorizations, and so forth.

Example 1: Letter About providing poor Service

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Winger:

We are experiencing problems with several of Hobart’s valets recklessly driving in our garage–problems such as spinning tires, speeding, and driving with car doors open. To date, there have been no accidents or injuries reported by our tenants, but we want to notify you formally of your responsibility in this situation.

Please see your valets are reminded of the safety hazards involved. Also, we ask that you no longer park cars in more than one entrance ramp on week days and you leave at least one entrance ramp open at all times during the weekend.

I have every confidence these problems can be remedied with both your attention and mine.

Sincerely,

Example 2: Example letter for poor service

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Hightower:

We are very concerned about the quality of the plumbing fixtures and the condition of the drain lines at our St. Louis offices. On two previous occasions, our offices have been flooded because of leaks. On March 9, a third leak occurred that caused considerable damage to our printing operations. The total repair and replacement costs amounted to $3,459.

We have attached all the invoices for your reimbursement. Please let us know immediately if you prefer we follow some other procedure for handling the damage claims.

Additionally, as a matter of precaution against a recurrence and possible injury to our employees, we ask you do the following: replace the old drain lines above our printing operations and recheck the newer lines in other locations.

Would you please notify us immediately when the work is complete and let us know of other precautions that you plan to take?

Sincerely,

Example 3: Sample letter for poor service

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Martin:

One of my employees, Winston Walkman, attended your June 6 class in St. Louis and was very disappointed with the quality of the course. Specifically, the content did not match the course outline in your advertisements. Although the agenda listed three topics having to do with conflict resolution, less than half an hour was spent addressing those issues. Additionally, the instructor’s knowledge was inadequate to deal with the technical questions from the class.

I spoke to the instructor briefly at the end of the class, and he agreed the questions and customer situations brought up in class were beyond his experience.

In light of the expectations raised by your course announcement, I think we are entitled to a refund of our $350 registration fee. A copy of that registration form is attached.

Should you need to discuss the class situation with me or Mr. Walkman in more detail, you may reach us at 346-2209.

Sincerely,

Example 4:Poor Service Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Frazier:

The four lamps we ordered from you on May 9 were shipped with improperly fitting globes. I’m returning the lamps for an immediate refund of $826.78. Because our first order took three weeks to arrive, we have decided to make an alternate selection at a local store rather than wait for your replacement.

Attached is a copy of our May 9 order, the customer receipt, and our canceled check. Thank you for processing this refund immediately.

Sincerely,

Example 5: Complaint letter for poor service

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Subject: IRA account #12345678 and IRA account #910111213

Dear Mr. Fulbright:

Today I received my account statement from your office for the period ending 3/31/19– and found my instructions for rolling over stock into my IRA had not been carried out. I face severe tax consequences if this account cannot be corrected to indicate a rollover of my company stock into another qualified retirement plan within the next 14 days.

Needless to say, I am disappointed these instructions have not been followed and am inconvenienced by having to write this second letter of instruction. (Ms. Debra White, the account executive assigned to me, says she lost my January 16 letter.)

Please take the following actions to correct my account:

1. Roll over 406 shares of Allbright Company common stock into my qualified IRA account #12345678.

2. Roll over 150 shares of TRZZ common stock into my qualified IRA account #910111213.

3. Make the effective date of both transactions February 1 because the delay in the rollover was due to mishandling of my previous instructions.

I know you wish to maintain the good reputation of your brokerage firm, and I am counting on you to take care of these transactions immediately.

Yours truly,

Example 6: Poor Services Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Lopez:

This letter will acknowledge receipt of your phone call today to say you have finished the brochures. As we explained to you on the phone March 19 and again in our meeting at your place of business on March 25, the brochures you erroneously printed in black ink rather than the brown ink we specified are not acceptable for the following reasons:

• All the inserts to be added to the brochures are in brown ink.
• All the cover letters to go with the brochures are in brown ink.
• The business cards and letterhead to accompany the brochures are in brown ink.
• The brochure’s brown cover does not look aesthetically pleasing next to the black ink, a real problem because we use this brochure as a sales tool in soliciting brochure/editorial/layout/design business.
• We have used brown ink on all mailouts, brochures, business cards, and letterhead to establish product and material recognition in the marketplace.
• Finally, our acceptance of your printing bid was contingent on a due date of March 24 (as can be attested by the typesetter, the photographer, the photo-processing lab, and the printer for the accompanying brochure inserts). Your delivery date on the brochures is 21 days past due.

With no work-order paper ever shown us about your record of our oral directions to you, you assumed black ink, never verifying job specifications with us in any written form.

Our original agreement was that you print 2,000 copies of our brochure at a total cost of $4,140 by our March 24 deadline. We regret the fact you chose, after you got a deposit, not to go through with your agreement to reprint the brochures in the brown ink we had specified.

While we in no way find the black-ink printing job acceptable, in light of your reversal of your decision to reprint as agreed upon in our telephone conversation of March 19, we are willing to try to salvage the situation by settling for a full payment of $3,110 for the brochures. In exchange for the $3,110, we will take the 2,000 black-ink brochures, all printing plates, and the return of our photos.

We had hoped to move our own brochure-printing business, as well as the printing jobs for our clients, to this part of the city, a much more convenient location for us. And, of course, we will, in the future, continue to take our large printing jobs to the two printing firms across town, which have served us well over the last seven years.

If we do not have a response from you within ten days from the date of this letter about our offer to settle this matter, we will pursue all legal avenues open to us to recover our total $2,070 deposit and all legal costs.

Yours truly,

Example 7: Sample Letter About poor Service

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Mossy:

On your flight #344 from Dallas to Tulsa on August 6, my bags were lost. Not only were they three days late in arriving, but also one arrived damaged. During the entire ordeal, your representatives continued to display a don’t-tell-me-your-troubles attitude in solving the problem.

To elaborate on the details:

• Upon arrival when I discovered my bags did not make it with me to Tulsa, I filed a claim with baggage service. The agent assured me the bags would arrive on the next flight at approximately 7:00 p.m. She took my name and hotel address and said the bags would be delivered there about 8:00 p.m. The bags never arrived.
• I called your Tulsa office again and spoke with Felicia Smith. She could tell me nothing and suggested I call the Dallas office again. I made four long-distance phone calls trying to reach the appropriate party. No one could tell me where the bags were. They suggested I “just wait.” I spent $10 on overnight toiletries.
• The second day I phoned your Tulsa office again, and Mike Hertz told me the bags had indeed arrived on the previous evening’s flight; he didn’t know why they were not delivered to me as promised. I explained I was traveling on to Norman, and he took my hotel address there and assured me my bags would arrive there by 6:00 p.m. the second day. I worked the second day in the same clothes.
• When I arrived at my Norman hotel that second evening, the bags had still not arrived. When I called the Tulsa office again, Suzanne Swartz told me she was “busy” and suggested I call her back collect in an hour. I asked to speak to her supervisor. She put me on hold for five minutes. When I hung up and called back, no one answered the phone.
• My bags (one with a broken handle and twisted rollers) were finally delivered at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday–four days after my Monday-evening flight. No apology or explanation was ever given to me about the delay or difficulty.

I request full payment for the damaged bag in the amount of $198. Also, I think it only appropriate that you reimburse me $10 for the toiletries and $19.86 for the four long-distance calls made to your airline offices.

Attached you will find:

• a repair estimate for the bag and a brochure listing the price of a comparable replacement bag
• my baggage claim receipt
• the hotel listing of telephone charges
• receipt for the toiletries
• boarding passes and a copy of the baggage claim check

My staff and I travel more than 60 percent of the year to all 50 states, and we schedule at least 2,000 flight segments on your airline. Needless to say, the quality of service I recently received has left a lasting impression. I hope you will want to correct that impression.

Yours truly,


22
Nov 10

Offer to Extend Credit



Example 1: Sample Letter for Offer to Extend Credit

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Kirshfield:

Thank you for letting us know your April rent will be late. I understand every business has its ups and downs. The demand for rental bicycles must have been a good bit lower than expected during the cold snap in March. We are confident you will get back on track once the weather improves. Ike’s Bikes has been a dependable and valued customer since 1992, therefore we are offering to extend credit until you get back on your feet.

We are offering our usual terms: 3 percent/14 days/Net 30. If these are acceptable, please call me. You are a valued customer.

Sincerely,

Example 2: Offer to Extend Credit Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Skip:

Although you’re having trouble paying for excavation equipment rental, John Kershbaum has assured us your cash flow problems will be alleviated once you complete the USA Bank building project. We think John’s assessment is accurate. Therefore, we have decided to offer you a credit extension. This offer reflects the faith we have in Tri-County.

Our terms are 2 percent/10 days/Net 15. Let me know if the offer suits you.

Cordially,


22
Nov 10

Third Contact






Example 1: Sample Letter of Third Contact

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Ms. Helsinki :

This is the third notice informing you that we have not received payment for the microwave oven you purchased July 19. Your account is now 90 days past due. We urge you to pay the balance without delay.

Call me if you foresee any problem in making the payment.

Sincerely,

Example 2: Example Letter of Third Contact

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Barton:

At Leslie’s Interior Design we offer credit only when a customer has met our stringent requirements. Your failure to pay for the work we did on the Burl Street development severely strains the trust we placed in Oasis Homes.

We sent you reminders on June 30 and July 15 that your payment was late. It is now 90 days past due. We want to keep Oasis Homes as a customer, but that possibility lessens each day you delay payment.

If we do not receive your payment by noon on Thursday, we will be forced to pursue other avenues of resolution.

Sincerely,

Example 3: Business Letter of Third Contact

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Miss Garbo:

Unfortunately, it seems as though sending you late rent notices has become a habit. This is the third notice your have received. Your June rent is now 60 days late. Your inconsistent record of payment is a serious problem, both for this company and for your credit record. Your continued non-payment will significantly harm your ability to rent another apartment in the future.

We must solve this problem without further delay. Call me if you have any problems with making a payment-in-full by September 1.

Sincerely,

Example 4: Letter of Third Contact

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Chaplin:

You are 90 days late paying your bill for the three pest control treatments we applied to your home in June. It is imperative you pay the balance due immediately. We have our own financial responsibilities and cannot afford to have customers be so grossly delinquent in their payments.

If you cannot pay by the end of the week, call me to discuss the matter.

Sincerely,

Example 5: Third Contact Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Dr. Valentino:

We rarely send a third collection notice without receiving payment or even a telephone call in return. However, this is exactly the situation we are experiencing with your office. You are now 100 days late on your payment. Please pick up the phone today to tell us why you have not been able to fulfill your payment obligations.

If we do not hear from you by November 15, we will have no choice but to forward your account over to a collection agency for further handling.

Your prompt attention to this matter will be appreciated.

Sincerely,


22
Nov 10

Second Contact






Example 1: Sample Letter of Second Contact

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Franklin:

Your June rent is 21 days past due. Please give your payment to the building manager by the 24th. If we do not receive it by then, we will assess a $50.00 per day late fee.

Sincerely,

Example 2: Letter of Second Contact

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mrs. Kapek:

We are concerned we have not received the check you told Ryan Clark you would send on the 12th. Such late payments are out of character for a loyal customer like you. If there is any reason why you cannot pay the amount due by the 17th, please contact me. We want to work with you to solve this problem.

Sincerely,

Example 3: Example Letter of Second Contact

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Patel:

The payment for your Jimmy Palmer model guitar is now 45 days late. This is the second notice we have sent you. We are concerned about the situation. Why not mail us a check right away so you can put the matter behind you? By making the payment now you will avoid any further damage to your credit record.

If you are unable to make the full payment, please call me to discuss payment options.

Sincerely,

Example 4: Second Contact Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Miss Young:

This is your second notification of non-payment for the crate of fresh salmon delivered to your restaurant September 30.

You have told me in the past you could not do without our service. We appreciate your patronage as well, but future business relations dictate that you pay your bills in a timely manner. Please send us your payment for $545.00 by November 15.

I hope we are not seeing a pattern develop in your payment habits. It is important we receive your check promptly.

Sincerely,

Example 5: The Second Contact Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Davis:

We do not like to pester our customers. However, your non-payment forces us to do just that. We are still waiting for the October balance of $2,395.00 due on your account. Your payment is now 60 days overdue. This is a serious matter. Further postponement of payment will damage your credit rating.

It is important we resolve the situation immediately. Please call me so we can arrange a meeting to discuss this matter further.

Sincerely,


22
Nov 10

First Contact







Example 1: Sample Letter of First Contact

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mrs. Hanson:

You have been very conscientious about paying your bills in the past, so we are sure that making the June payment just slipped your mind. If you send us your check for $455.00 right away, your credit rating will not be affected.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Sincerely,

Example 2: First Contact Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Arnold:

This is the third month in a row your car payment is late. Your balance of $225.00 is now five days past due. We cannot stress enough to you how important it is that we receive your payments by the 15th of each month. In order for you to maintain your credit rating and in order for us to pay our own bills, we need your check on time.

We hope a pattern is not developing here. Please call me to discuss how we might resolve this problem.

Sincerely,

Example 3: Letter of First Contact

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Crebbock:

I was surprise to see you had not paid your May bill. We all forget sometimes. Could you send your payment as soon as possible? I have enclosed a copy of your statement in case you have misplaced the original.

We appreciate your business.

Sincerely,

Example 4: Sample of First Contact Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Miss Kuske:

Are you aware we have not received your August payment on your Sea Wolf 5000 personal watercraft? We would like to close our books for September, so please send us your check for $75.00 right away.

If you already mailed it, please disregard this letter. We are glad you chose Sea Wolf.

Sincerely,

Example 5: Example of First Contact Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Abbott:

We all need a reminder once in a while. That is why I am sending you this letter to tell you that we have not received your March payment. We would appreciate if you forwarded it to us by the first of August. If you have misplaced the statement, please call our billing department at 555-3495. They will be happy to send you another copy.

Thank you for your continued patronage.

Sincerely,

Example 6: Example letters for First Contact to company’s valued customers

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Ms. Ramirez:

How are you enjoying your new Clear Sound CD player? We hope you have found our slogan, “No sound is clearer than Clear Sound,” to be true.

I wanted to let you know your first payment of $32 on your system is 10 days past due. Remember your payment is due on the third of each month. You are a valued customer, so we are sure it is merely an oversight.

If you are having any trouble with your Clear Sound CD player, please call our customer service line at (800) 555-2984.

Sincerely,


22
Nov 10

Filing bankruptcy Claim






Example 1: Sample Letter of Filing bankruptcy Claim

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Clerk, Bankruptcy Court
Address
City, State Zip

Re: (Number of Case); (Debtor’s Name)

Dear Madam/Sir:

I wish to file a bankruptcy claim against Robert Morton. Enclosed is my Proof of Claim form and two invoices which support my claim.

Sincerely,

Example 2: Filing bankruptcy Claim Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Clerk, Bankruptcy Court
Address
City, State Zip

Re: (Number of Case); (Debtor’s Name)

Dear Madam/Sir:

Please file the enclosed Proof of Claim and supporting documents. Would you return the second copy of the claim with the clerk’s stamp to indicate your receipt of these papers?

Sincerely,

Example 3: Letter of Filing bankruptcy Claim

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Clerk, Bankruptcy Court
Address
City, State Zip

Re: (Number of Case); (Debtor’s Name)

Dear Madam/Sir:

My Proof of Claim form and contract are enclosed in support of a bankruptcy claim against Julie Mitchell of 1229 Northwood Boulevard. Please sign and date the enclosed letter which verifies your filing of these records, and mail it in the self-addressed, stamped envelope provided.

Sincerely,

Example 4: Example Letter for Filing bankruptcy Claim

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Clerk, Bankruptcy Court
Address
City, State Zip

Re: (Number of Case); (Debtor’s Name)

Dear Madam/Sir:

Please accept these documents as evidence of my bankruptcy claim against Dade Enterprises. Enclosed are a Proof of Claim form, two purchase orders, two invoices, and a June 13, 1997 court judgment.

Sincerely,

Example 5: sample of Filing bankruptcy Claim Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Clerk, Bankruptcy Court
Address
City, State Zip

Re: (Number of Case); (Debtor’s Name)

Dear Madam/Sir:

Enclosed are a Proof of Claim form and a contract which detail my bankruptcy claim. Please place these documents on file with the court.

Sincerely,


22
Nov 10

Cancellation of Credit



Example 1: Sample letter for cancellation of credit

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Slate:

Freeway Auto Parts has stringent rules for extending credit. Dave’s Tires has maintained an outstanding credit record with us for the past two years. However, because of several late payments within the last six months and a bill which is currently outstanding, Dave’s no longer fits our profile of companies eligible for credit. Therefore, we are terminating your credit account effective December 31. The account balance will be due in full at that time.

All future orders will be on a C.O.D. basis.

Sincerely,

Example 2: Example letters for cancellation of credit

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Ms. Garcia:

As a result of the changes in your financial status this year, we feel we have sufficient reason to believe that Eco-Chem of Mayfield will be unable to maintain its credit in good standing at MacKenzie Laboratories. Therefore, we regret to inform you that we will no longer extend you credit. Any orders you make in the future must be paid for on a COD basis.

Sincerely,


22
Nov 10

Assignment of Account to Agency






Example 1: Sample Letter for Assignment of Account to Agency

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Folger:

Your balance with Murray’s Furniture Warehouse is 120 days past due. Our efforts to collect from you by mail, fax, and telephone have been fruitless. You still owe $2,499 of the original $4,792 in purchases you made at our store on June 8. The last check we received from you was on August 8.

If we do not receive a payment within 10 days, your account will be turned over to Bradford Collection Agency for further handling.

Sincerely,

Example 2: Sample letters for account letters

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Richardson:

Despite our numerous attempts by letter, telephone, and numerous onsite visits to your restaurant to collect your past due balance, you have neglected to make any effort in making payments to Maplewood Florists. Your restaurant is now $350 in arrears. Having broken a series of promises to pay, we cannot trust your word any longer and must take more serious action.

We have turned your account over to our collection service. They are authorized to use any and all legal means deemed appropriate to collect your payment.

Sincerely,

Example 3: Business Letter for Assignment of Account to Agency

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Ms. Butler:

Having broken a series of promises to pay your balance, we can no longer rely on Sunnydale Kennel to follow through on its obligations. Although we have made significant efforts to collect by phone and fax, you are 95 days late on your bill of $1,598.

Your negligence in payments is a breach of our monthly installments policy. Therefore, we have assigned a collection agency to resolve your payment situation.

Sincerely,

Example 4: Letter of Assignment of Account to Agency

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mrs. Smith:

Your refusal to pay your outstanding balance has forced us to turn your account over to our collection service. The balance of $956.00 for legal services rendered is 100 days past due. We have offered you numerous opportunities to make payment arrangements that are affordable and can assist you in times of financial stress. However, without having received any form of response from you, our office will now proceed more aggressively.

Your account is now being handled by Martin & Martin Associates. If you have any questions or need further information regarding your past due account, please contact their office at (800) 555-0000.

Sincerely,

Example 5: Assignment of Account to Agency Letter

Company Name or Letterhead
Address
City, State Zip

Date

Addressee
Address
City, State Zip

Dear Mr. Bradford :

We feel we have been more than patient in awaiting your payments, however, no business can survive when customers are consistently delinquent on their accounts. As a result, Fire Safe, Inc. can no longer afford to do business with Erie Steel.

Your outstanding debts include the following:

Order # Date of Delivery Amount Due

#M-5600 March 10, 1997 $560.00
#M-5724 March 25, 1997 $478.00
#M-5759 March 27, 1997 $236.00
#A-5895 April 5, 1997 $812.00

TOTAL DUE $2,086.00

We have assigned your account to our collection agency for resolution. We regret we can no longer offer you our services until your balance is paid in full.

Sincerely,