Letter: Audience

Letter: Audience

Understanding the Recipient

• Before drafting a letter, it’s essential to have a thorough understanding of the recipient. The tone, language, and content of your letter will significantly vary depending on whether you’re writing to a friend, a professional contact, a company or an authority figure.

Formal Audience

• For more formal recipients like employers or organisations, your letter should present facts objectively and formally. Always maintain a level of respect and professionalism in your tone.

Informal Audience

• On the other hand, when writing to an informal or familiar audience like friends or relatives, the letter can be much more casual and personal. The language can be conversational, and you can include personal anecdotes and jokes.

Persuading or Influencing

• If your letter is written to persuade or influence the audience, it’s important to understand their viewpoint or position. Consider their interests, beliefs, and values when crafting your argument.

Business or Professional Correspondence

• In business or professional correspondence, being succinct and clear is vital. The recipient may be busy, so ensure your points are understandable and they know what is expected from them in response.

Show Empathy and Understanding

• In sensitive situations, show empathy by understanding the audience’s feelings and responding in a considerate and supportive manner. Be respectful and tactful.

Tailoring Language to Audience

• The use of language should align with the understanding of the audience. For a younger audience, use modern slang or lingo whereas for an older or formal audience, use traditional and formal language.

Tone according to Audience

• Adjust the tone of your letter to suit the audience. An authoritative figure might need a more formal, respectful tone, while a friend might allow for more warmth and humour. Always remember, whoever the recipient, tone can convey respect and consideration.