writing advice letter

How to Write a Retirement Letter

A retirement letter is the best way to formerly announce your intention of retirement to your employer. Follow these simple guidelines on how to write the most comprehensive retirement letter.

Review this basic retirement letter sample to write a perfectly worded retirement letter to your employer.

• Your Contact Information: Name, Position Title, Company, Address, Phone and Email
• Employer’s Contact Information: Name, Position Title, Company and Company’s Address
• First Paragraph: Salutation and Formal Notification to Employer
• Second Paragraph: Highlight Experiences
• Third Paragraph: Offer Assistance
• Closing: Final Thoughts and Sign-off

Formal Notification to Employer

Start your letter with a brief salutation and name your desired date of retirement. You may want to check company guidelines as to what the appropriate amount of time should be until your last day. Protocols may differ depending on your position with the company. Some employers prefer up to two months notice for date of retirement, while others prefer just a two weeks notice. Regardless, make it clear what your desired last day of employment is so that your employer has ample time to prepare for your leaving.

Highlight Experiences

In your second paragraph, take time to highlight any relevant experiences learned from your time at the company. Remind your employer of how many years you served at the company and any significant achievements you made while there.

This is also a good time to thank your employer for any relevant experience you learned from them. Keep it professional, even if you aren’t leaving on a good note.

Offer Assistance

If you would like to stay connected to the company in future, now is the time to bring it up. Center your third paragraph on ways you can stay relevant and beneficial to the company through your retirement. Offer to stay on for a few months to train a new person into your position. Offer to work part-time or as a consultant to your firm during your transition.

Final Thoughts and Sign-off

End your letter with final thoughts and a polite closing. Mention any future plans you are looking forward to after retirement like community outreach, travel or hobbies. You should also ask any questions you may have regarding pension plan and retirement benefits offered. Make sure to include your Human Resource department if you are writing through email.

Be sure to write a final thank you sentence, wrapping up the whole letter. End with your personal contact information for your employer’s reference and complimentary close.

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Letter of Advice [IELTS Writing]

Posted by David S. Wills | Mar 1, 2021 | IELTS Tips , Writing | 0

In the IELTS writing test, you may be asked to produce a letter of advice. This will require you to give advice to someone – typically a friend or family member. In this article, I will explain everything you need to know and give some sample letters.

What is a Letter of Advice?

As the name suggests, a letter of advice is a letter written to someone with the purpose of giving them advice about something. This may be a problem they face or a dilemma. You might have to help them make a difficult choice, such as whether to get a job or go on to further education.

The prompt may or may not say “give advice.” Sometimes it is strong implied or just stated through other words. It might say that the other person has “asked for advice” or it might tell you to “give them advice.” It totally depends on the situation.

How to Write a Letter of Advice

When writing a letter of advice, you need to consider the tone of the essay. In other words, is it formal or informal ? To be honest, for IELTS this sort of letter is going to be informal in 90% of situations. However, sometimes you might want to be a little cautious and go with semi-formal , particularly if the advice is on a serious matter.

You will also need to think about structure. There is no single formula for a letter structure but generally you should consider the following:

• An appropriate greeting.
• A short paragraph stating the purpose of the letter and why you are writing.
• Logical body paragraphs that address the bullet points.
• An appropriate sign-off.

You can read all about this in my book, A Complete Guide to IELTS Letters .

Next, we need to pick the right language for this situation.

Language for Giving Advice

When it comes to giving people advice, the most obvious phrase to use is “you should…” This is perfectly fine to use in IELTS, but we shouldn’t over-use it. You might also find that certain situations call for slightly more delicate language. In other words, you might not want to be too direct and so you soften your language when giving advice.

Here is an example:

• I think you should speak to your boss and tell him you are unhappy with your current duties.

This is perfectly fine, but we might soften it slightly by saying:

• Why don’t you speak to your boss and tell him you are unhappy with your current duties?

By making this a question, it is a little less forceful.

You can also use the word “could” to soften it even further:

• You could speak to your boss and tell him you are unhappy with your current duties.

This could be made even more delicate with “perhaps”:

• Perhaps you could speak to your boss and tell him you are unhappy with your current duties.

In very casual situations, you might use a question with “how about”:

• How about speaking with your boss and telling him you are unhappy with your current duties?

All of these are acceptable and there are only slight differences between them. Your choice will depend on the situation and your intended meaning.

Here are two example letters that answer prompts requiring advice.

You recently received a letter from a friend asking for advice about whether to go to college or to try to get a job. You think they should get a job.

Write a letter to this friend. In your letter

• say they would not enjoy going to college
• explain why getting a job is a good idea for them
• suggest types of jobs that would be suitable for them

Dear Sandy,

Thanks for your recent letter. I’m glad to hear that you are doing well, and I think that it’s great that you have so many options for your future. You’re really lucky to have such a choice to make, but let me tell you why I think you should get a job rather than go to college.

Nowadays, everyone seems to be going to college. It’s become such a common thing that degrees and diplomas are actually being devalued and it’s the people who go out into the world and get a job that are succeeding. Aside from that, I know that you really hated school and could never seem to sit still long enough to get much value from a class. I just don’t see you really getting much out of college and so maybe you’d function better in a regular job.

You were great in all of our practical classes like woodwork, so why don’t you look into getting an apprenticeship as a carpenter or something like that? These people are making a lot of money nowadays and so it’s a useful skill to have. By the time everyone graduates from college and are fighting over the same jobs, you’ll be an experienced professional earning a great salary.

Think about it and let me know. I’ll support you whatever you choose to do.

This letter is written to a friend, so it is possible to use an informal tone, but because it is dealing with a serious matter it is probably better to use a semi-formal tone. Here, I have used some elements of informal language but overall there is a lot of neutral language. It is discursive and informative, giving advice in a careful way. Being too informal here might be inappropriate because it could potentially offend the recipient to hear that they are not right for higher education.  

The main piece of advice is presented here, with a question:

• why don’t you look into getting an apprenticeship as a carpenter or something like that?

The show of support at the end is quite important after giving advice and would mean a lot as a kind gesture between friends.

A friend has written to you asking for advice about a problem at work. You have had a similar problem in the past.

Write a letter to your friend. In your letter

• tell your friend you understand the problem
• explain what happened to you in the past
• suggest possible solutions to the problem

I was sorry to hear that you aren’t getting along in your new job. I understand what you’re going through. Back when I started at my job, I experienced the same thing. Let me tell you a little about it.

When I first started working at the hotel, I really struggled to get along with my co-workers. They all seemed to gather in little cliques and it was hard to communicate with them because they didn’t seem interested in talking to me. I wouldn’t have minded, but it was affecting my work and, as the new guy, I was afraid I’d get fired.

In the end, I made sure that my work ethic was impeccable and so no one could complain about me. Then, I made greater efforts to reach out to my co-workers. I asked them questions to make them feel appreciated and spent some time with one or two of them outside of work to build a social connection.

Perhaps these things can help you, too. I really hope so.

Let me know how it goes.

This letter is addressed to a friend and so it should be written in a somewhat informal tone. It is about work, so perhaps semi-formal would also be acceptable, but you can see that I have chosen to use mostly informal language here. I have structured my letter casually but logically to fit the requirements of the task, giving a story about my own experiences. I have avoided the obvious language of “You should…” because it is a little direct. That is fine, but in this case I have given my advice more subtly by explaining my story and then saying “Perhaps these things can help you, too.”

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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68 Example Advice Letters, Guides and Samples

Advice letters are difficult to write. use professional words for the appropriate course of action., choose a topic to view example advice letters:, recommended advice letter articles.

How to Write an Advice Letter

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IELTS Writing Task 1- Letter of advice

Part of your General IELTS writing exam involves writing a formal or informal letter. This article instructions and informs you on how to produce a letter of advice.

A letter of advice is likely to have you helping someone with a particular problem. The problem could be various things, such as moving abroad, accepting a job offer, work problems and many other scenarios.

One of the best things you can do to ensure you write an excellent letter of advice is to use a good range of modal verbs . It would be tiresome to read too many 'should's', so show the examiner how flexible you can be with your modal verbs and use of English.

In this post you will

• Recap on essential information about task 1
• Understand what a letter of advice is
• Pick up some exam tips
• Purchase common phrases and task language
• Develop your understanding with an IELTS sample question and model response

A quick recap about Task 1

• You are expected to write about 150 words in 20 minutes
• You have to address the points given as these are scored under Task Achievement
• Each point doesn't have to be equally explored but all must be addressed
• Write your letter in the same order as the bullet points
• Your first sentence should communicate the subject of the letter
• Adapt your language to the question type, whether it be advice, forming a complaint, applying for a job, etc

A quick note on structure

The structure of your letter should be in line with the main points that are given in the task.

• Introduction and addressing the main idea within the letter. Let’s say it’s about giving your friend advice on a problem at work;

‘It’s great to hear from you Laura, and I’m pleased you reached out. I understand it must be difficult at work at the moment. I’ve been in a similar situation myself and similarly found it stressful. I do think there are solutions to how we can fix this.’

2. The following paragraphs should link to the other main points. For example, let's say one issue is that their colleague received a bonus on the same project they worked on.

'My advice would be to speak to your line manager. Whilst this may seem tough to do, it could have the results you are wanting. More often than not, we avoid the communication we know we need to have, especially in the workplace. I know I've done this before as well. Why don't you try arranging a meeting to talk about how you feel?'

3. An appropriate sign off

You don’t need an additional conclusion paragraph because this is a letter and not an essay.

Is a letter of advice formal or informal?

For the majority of situations, a letter of advice is going to be informal because the recipient is likely to be someone you know (we are talking hypothetically here), but there may be the odd chance that it has some formality to it, and then you will need to adapt your tone to a semi-formal tone.

Common phrases and language usage for giving advice

Modals are a common and appropriate way of expressing language around advice. ‘Should’ is a particularly common modal verb and is sometimes misplaced or overused. So when using this, think about what other modals you can use and try not to repeat ‘should’ often, there are plenty of other ways to express advice.

Modal verbs are useful to use, and as I expressed earlier, avoid over-using 'should' as this suggests a lack of grammatical awareness and vocabulary.

Some of the most common modal verbs are:

'Will, might, should, ought to, had better, may, must, would, shall, could, must have, would have, could have, might have, should have, may have'

Other useful phrases for giving advice:

• Let's consider
• Have you thought of
• I've been in a similar position before
• I can relate to this problem
• It is usually a good idea to
• My suggestion is
• Why don't you
• Why not try
• Have you tried

Letter of advice sample

A friend has written to you asking for advice about a problem at work. You have had a similar problem in the past.

Write a letter to your friend. In your letter,

• tell your friend you can relate and understand the problem
• explain what happened to you in the past
• suggest possible solutions to the problem

I am sorry to hear you're going through a rough patch with work. I understand and appreciate what you're going through. When I first started my job, I felt the same as you do now. I hope by me telling you about it, it can alleviate some worry for you.

When I first started working at the school, I struggled to form a connection with my co-workers and it felt quite isolating. They seemed to have a tight bond between them and I felt excluded from this. I thought to myself how unusual this was, as I hadn't previously experienced this. Over time, it was getting to me and my work was suffering as a result. I found it hard to focus and be productive. My natural reaction was so isolate myself further, and I thought this was the only way to cope.

At first I spoke to my manager in confidence and he was sympathetic and gave me some advice. I made small and incremental efforts with my colleagues, and started to spend more time with them outside of work. My efforts were reciprocated and I felt a lot better. Once a connection was established, it meant work was much easier and I was able to be better at my job too.

My suggestion would be to spend some time with your colleagues outside of work. This made the biggest difference and I'm sure it will have positive outcomes for you as well.

Keep me up to date with how things go.

Question and Answer forum for K12 Students

Sample Letters of Advice | Template, Format and How To Write Sample Letters of Advice?

Sample Letters of Advice: Advice is defined as an act of guidance, recommendation, a proposition, a suggestion, or an opinion using wise words. Individuals can seek advice from anyone who she or he thinks fit to approach for guidance or recommendation.

However, the advisor’s burden is liable to the kind of opinion or suggestion, or recommendation is given to the other individual. For instance, when someone reaches out to you for advice, you have to remain honest and provide them with your sincere opinion or suggestion.

A letter of advice is primarily of two common types, an official capacity and a personal capacity.

In an official capacity, the advice could be directed to a customer or maybe a subordinate. There are chances that your opinion may be sought or asked by higher officials or authorities.

In a personal capacity, the advice could shapeshift as motivation to take an opportunity, to avail a chance, recommendation, or words of encouragement,

Here is a note to self, no matter in what capacity you are writing the letter of advice, remember that the burden lies in presenting a positive response. Before responding to the other individual to such a request, think about the request without delaying the letter.

Remember to make the right choice of words and avoid being judgemental. Make the person on the other end believe that you genuinely care about him or her and build your opinion on sincerity.

When considering a sensitive topic, evaluate the approach carefully and avoid strong and intense language. It is also better to restrict your opinion regarding the subject that has been asked. Refrain from adding additional aspects to it.

If you have been requested for an opinion about a serious or grave matter that you are not personally inclined to or dislike, refrain from mentioning it or pointing it out in a disrespectful manner. Instead, remain polite, helpful, and respectful.

Refrain from giving a personal opinion on any issues unless you have requested to provide one. When you are asked for advice, always maintain a constant tone of appreciation and assure the person that whatever suggestion you are conferring is in her or his interest.

If you cannot confer an opinion or comment on any request, show your request and clearly state that you are unable to advise on this matter or issue. However, do not present wrongful advice to anyone.

Sample Letters Of Advice

Here are a few of the samples of letters of advice based on the occasion or person.

Letter Of Advice Format

When writing a letter of advice, the format should be molded around the following pointers-

• The choice of words must be used carefully.
• Respond quickly to the request for advice but give yourself some time to think about your answer.
• Keep the tone respectful, congenial, and helpful no matter how you feel.
• Be careful of appearing judgmental and avoid direct or implied criticism.
• Avoid vital languages, and it may discourage your reader.
• If you cannot give advice, express your regret but refrain from personal opinion or comments.
• When dealing with a sensitive topic, consider your approach carefully.
• Present personal advice only if asked and must ensure caution and sensitivity.
• Show some gratitude with a friendly letter.
• Keep your advice simple, concise, and to the point.
• If someone takes your advice, maintain a tone of appreciation and avoid condescension or feelings of superiority.

Letter for Asking An Advice

Dear (name),

I want to ask your advice on joining a company located in Dubai. I have received a good career opportunity in Dubai, inclusive of a family visa. I need your unsolicited advice and decision about this. You know that I am completing my seven-year tenure in my current job and even received a promotion.

I am looking forward to moving to Dubai with my family and hope for a better and safe environment. I could take your advice as you have settled in Dubai.

Please send me a detailed enquiry about the living situation, the cost of living, and a query about the company. I have attached a copy of the appointment letter for the address. Please feel free to call my number at any time, waiting for your reply.

Thanking you,

Letter Of Advice On Weight Loss

Dear Daisy,

I firstly thank you for writing me this letter. I’ve just received your email, and I was sorry to hear you’re worried about your weight. I hope my unsolicited advice helps you and hope that things get better soon.

Your initial problem is about your weight. Besides having a healthy diet, I suggest you try some beneficial and health exercises and activities like swimming, playing ball games, etc. Besides, accept your appearance as everybody is beautiful. Avoid being with people who put you down or let them know how you feel when they comment about your weight.

You could walk more whenever possible rather than taking the bus or car as it helps your burn calories and helps you become fit and healthy. I know it can be hard to do at first, but believe me, it will work.

Please, feel free to contact me through call or email anytime. I am looking forward to your reply.

Thanking You,

Letter Of Advice To Company

A letter of advice to a company or a business should be formal and professional. The letter should encompass professional correspondence from one industry to another or from one company to another. The letter of advice to a company allows the format of a formal letter by having clear, precise, and relevant information.

Recipient’s address

Your Address and contact details

Objective ( A simple and short sentence)

Dear (Recipient’s name),

I am writing to inform you that our business name has changed from ( insert the old name) to ( insert the new name).

There has been no change in management, and we will be providing the consumers with the same service and products on which we have built our reputation.

There is no change in the contact, and everything will remain the same on the business level. I would greatly appreciate your HR team about the difference in the organisation’s name and update the record accordingly.

Thank you for your cooperation regarding this matter, and we will look forward to continuing a great partnership with each other.

(Sign here)

(Your Name and Title)

Letter Of Advice To Friend

While writing a letter of advice to a close friend, the informal letter format must be implemented. A letter of recommendation on this category should not be restrictive, and therefore there are no particular rules to follow. You can write what feels natural to you depending on how well you know the advice letter recipient.

Dear (name)

I am sorry about your current situation; I am sure we can brainstorm something to relieve you from the shackle.

(Briefly mention a few suggestions to help)

I will look into the matter in detail and get back to you as soon as possible. You know that you can always contact me whenever you need something or a hand of help or talk about anything. You already possess my contact details.

I will contact you after looking further into the matter.

Keep your chin up.

See you soon!

(Your Name)

Letter Of Advice About Dispatched Goods

Letter of advice about dispatched goods should be a formal letter confirming that you have shipped the item(s) to the reader. Enlist or mention what and when the item is mailed, along with the instructions as to what the reader should do if he or she does not receive the item(s). Also, include what the reader should do during any problem with the item(s). State your next course of action and end with a kind note.

(Sender’s Name)

(Address line)

(State, ZIP Code)

(Letter Date)

(Recipients Name)

(Subject: A summary of the intention of the letter)

Dear (Recipients Name),

We want to inform you that we have dispatched the brochure and other promotional material you requested yesterday during the phone conversation. I hope the above-mentioned information will provide you with all the information you need regarding the product you ordered.

We expect that you will receive the package by April 10. If, however, you do not receive the package within that said period, please get in touch with me immediately to rectify the situation.

Upon receiving the package, please do inform me if every product within is intact. Upon receiving the package, I will be calling you to present you with further instructions.

(Your Title)-Optional

(Enclosures: number) – Optional

cc: (Name of copy recipient) – Optional

Academic Letter Of Advice

Dear Louis,

I am sorry that I haven’t written to you or reached you in a long time. I have been swamped over the last year.

I want to pursue an MBA in Canada, and I hope you could give me some advice. I visited Toronto last year, and I wish to pursue my Higher education in Toronto. Since you have been living there for a few years, I am pretty sure that you will be able to assist me in finding an appropriate institution. I don’t have a huge budget, so I am looking for an affordable institution.

I hope you would not mind helping me. Although I can search online for colleges in Canada, I think the information obtained from a friend living in the country would be better.

I hope to hear from you soon.

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How to Write a Letter Asking for Advice

Last Updated: May 19, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Kirsten Thompson, MD . Dr. Kirsten Thompson is a Board Certified Psychiatrist, Clinical Instructor at UCLA, and the Founder of Remedy Psychiatry. She specializes in helping patients with mental health conditions such as major depressive disorder, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and postpartum depression. Dr. Thompson holds a BS in Operations Research Industrial Engineering from Cornell University and an MD from The State University of New York, Downstate College of Medicine. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 510,004 times.

The need to ask for advice arises periodically throughout life. Looking for a job, navigating the world of relationships, dealing with bullies, or figuring out what to do about your first crush are just a few of the life circumstances that may lead you to ask others for advice. Asking for advice in writing is different from a face-to-face conversation because it means that you need to think things through carefully in advance, provide all necessary information and ask appropriate questions.

Sample Template

Composing the Letter

For example, if you're asking for parenting advice, you can say, “My name is Anna Smith and I'm a 36 year old mother of two daughters.” In this case, you don’t need to say what you do for a living unless you're asking how to raise children while also working full time.

If you're writing to someone you don’t know, briefly let them know how you found them. For example, “I was referred to you by [insert name of person], who thinks you might be able to help me.”

• ”I am writing to ask if you could help me with…”
• ”I would appreciate if you could give me some advice about…”
• ”I am writing to ask for your advice.”
• ”I wonder if you could help me with a problem.”

• This can help the advice giver know that you really need their help and that you’re not being lazy. It can also save time and effort because they won’t suggest something you’ve already tried.
• For example, if you'd like advice on how to deal with bullying at school, you could say, “There's a big problem with bullies at my school. How can I deal with them? How can I help stand up for someone who's being bullied? What can I do to make bullying happen less often?”

• Try to keep your letter between 300 and 400 words. This length will give you enough words to introduce yourself and your questions without over doing it.

• Remember: this person does not have to help you, and if they take time to read your letter, you owe them a thank you.
• For example, you could say, “Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. I understand that you're a busy person, and any advice you offer would be greatly appreciated. If it's helpful, I'd be more than happy to discuss my questions over the phone or coffee. My contact details can be found at the end of this letter.”

Formatting Your Letter

• When writing to someone you don’t know, you should say: “Dear Mr./Ms. [the last name of the person your are writing to].”
• In a less formal letter, you could say, “Dear [the first name of the person].”
• Regardless of whom you're writing to, always begin with “Dear.”

• If you're handwriting the letter, print your name carefully a few lines below the valediction, then sign your name in between these spaces.
• If you're typing the letter, enter a few spaces between the valediction and your name, then print the letter out. Sign it by hand before sending it out.

• If you're hoping for a written response through the mail, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your letter. This way, the advice giver will only have to write their response and place it in the envelope provided before sending it back to you.

Choosing Who To Write To

• If you want to work as a nonfiction writer, write the names of accomplished writers, agents, or publishers that you could write to.
• Include the names of people you know personally and the names of people you don’t know as well, such as past teachers, former bosses or colleagues, well-known people from the area in which you are seeking advice, or even advice columnists.
• Don’t forget family members. People, such as your grandparents, have had many experiences in life. This makes them well-qualified to give advice. If you’re having trouble thinking of someone, go through your family members.
• You can write to famous people, but your chances of getting a response are small. If you get a response, it might be written by an intern or PR employee. The response may be generic and not address your needs specifically.

• For example, an advice giver may be able to connect you with specific resources or people, teach you how to do something, or provide a written response.
• Some people may have more connections and ways of getting you started on something than others. If you just want advice and nothing else, write to someone you know personally or to an advice column.

• For example, if you're looking for relationship advice, see if the person you want to write to has had education or experience working with couples before.
• Research can save you from wasting time. For example, different columnists often specialize in certain topics. Some focus on relationship advice while others might focus on practical life advice.

• For example, if you know the person you could say, “I know it's not your job to answer requests for advice; however, I believe you're the best person to help me. I'd be happy to offer you a home cooked meal in return for your time.”
• If you don’t know the person, you might offer to compensate them for their time, if you can afford to do so.

Community Q&A

• If you are sending your letter through snail mail, make sure to write the name and address of the recipient neatly on the envelope. You can also include your own name and address on the envelope in case it needs to be returned to you. Be sure to include adequate postage. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If you are handwriting the letter, make sure that you do so in your neatest handwriting. A sloppy letter is unlikely to receive a reply. Consider typing the letter in a word processing program after you’ve written it to ensure that it looks as neat as possible. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If you plan to send your letter via email, you can follow the same instructions as you would if you were sending it through the post. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Understand that in many cases you might not receive a reply, especially if you are writing to a very well-known person or an advice columnist who might receive hundreds of letters and emails every day asking for advice. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/letter-of-introduction
• ↑ https://www.letters.org/miscellaneous-letter/sample-letter-asking-for-an-advice.html
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-ask-for-career-advice-in-email/
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-ask-for-career-advice-in-email
• ↑ https://nmu.edu/writingcenter/parts-business-letter
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how-to-end-a-letter/
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-ask-for-a-favor-in-a-formal-email
• ↑ https://today.duke.edu/2020/02/art-asking-favor

About This Article

To write a letter asking for advice, start by introducing yourself and the reason for your letter. Briefly describe the problem you’re having, as well as how you have attempted to solve it and why you are having trouble accomplishing the goal on your own. You should also write out 3-5 specific questions that the person can answer to help you solve your issue. Try to keep your letter between 300 and 400 words to increase your chances of getting a reply. Keep reading to learn how to format your letter. Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Letter of Advice

Writing a letter of advice can be a difficult, but also rewarding experience. It is a unique opportunity to pass your wisdom on to someone you care about. If a friend, family member, or work colleague approaches you for advice, it is important to be careful and considered in your response. It is likely that your comments will be taken quite seriously, so if you don't feel confident in the advice you can offer the person, you should politely respond that you are not well suited to give such advice. Below we will offer some tips for writing your letter of advice. To ensure that your letter is not misinterpreted, it is worth putting some extra effort into your English grammar and writing style. WhiteSmoke is the perfect tool for giving your letter of advice this finishing touch. As an all-in-one solution, WhiteSmoke features a grammar checker , a spell checker , a thesaurus, an online dictionary and special enrichment features to make your letter writing stand out. Tips for writing a letter of advice

•   Allow yourself time for a considered response, but do respond as soon as you are able
•   No matter how you feel about the predicament of the person, respond respectfully and helpfully
•   Do not criticize, and avoid discouraging language
•   Only give advice relevant to the specific issue, and keep your writing concise and to the point
•   Keep channels open for further consultation should the person require more help

By following these simple tips for your letter of advice, you are half way there. However, you also need to ensure your advice cannot be misinterpreted in any way. This requires solid proofreading, with attention to grammar and style. WhiteSmoke Writing Software is the most complete writing tool available for this task.

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