Format is the first step to writing a professional business letter. Hand out sample business letters to students so they can review them. Discuss the format, including line spacing, margins and font. Discuss the placement of addresses, date, salutation and closing. Point out the lack of slang or casual wording within the letters. Discuss the lack of spelling and grammar mistakes, as well. Have them compare letters so that they notice the specific order of a business letter.
Have students respond to specific writing prompts in the form of a business letter. To begin, you will need to give them a situation in which a business letter would be appropriate. For example, have students write a thank you letter to a potential employer after a job interview. Have them express their interest in the job and mention the skills they have that the position requires.
Discuss with students how to write business letters in response to being disappointed in a business or service. Ask the students to brainstorm situations in which they were dissatisfied with a service or product. Discuss ways in which they can voice their concerns while still being professional. Have them write a letter to a business owner expressing their concerns and a possible solution.
Pass out several pages from a local newspaper. Have students choose an article that interests them. Students should read the article carefully and take notes on their feelings and attitudes toward the subject matter. Ask students to write a business letter to the editor addressing their concerns or opinions based on the information provided in the article. After completing their letters, students should pass them around so that other students can proofread them. Once satisfied, send the letters to the editor and see if they elicit a reply.