Non-routine requests
1.1. Tone and language choice in writing request:
Guidelines.
Writing routine request:
When writing routine requests, state the request directly, but politely. Use phrases these:
Direct:
– please send me information about…
– I´d like to receive information about…
– I am writing to request information about…
Less direct:
– Could you tell me how much…
– I would appreciate receiving a price list.
Writing Non-Routine requests:
When writing non-routine requests, state the request indirectly. Could, would, do you think you could, and I would appreciate it if are “distancers” or “softeners”. They make the request more indirect. The harder the favor is to ask, the more indirect it should be.
Les direct:
– Would it be possible to…
– Could you please…
– Do you think you could (possibly)…
– Would you mind sending me another…
– I would appreciate your help with…
– We were wondering if you would mind sending…
– I would appreciate it if you would/could send this as soon as possible.
– I´m writing to ask you a favor. Do you think you could…
– If you could share this information with us, we would really appreciate it.
Closing sentences in Non-routine requests
The last sentences in non-routine requests express appreciation or thanks.
– Thank you very much.
– Thank you very much for your help.
– Thank you for your assistance with this request.
– I appreciate your help/assistance with this.
I sincerely/really (informal) appreciate your help
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