WORD FOR THE DAY "genuine" (adj.) "1. unquestionably not false, copied, or adulterated; 2. free from pretense or hypocrisy; (syn.) authentic" (Random House Dictionary)

Five steps to more genuine letter writing

A mistake people make when facing a letter writing project (capital “W” and capital “P”) is to put their heads into a lofty place, steeling themselves for a difficult task. Sentences get longer. Bigger descriptive words are used, often taken from the Thesaurus. Tone becomes more formal; some would say “stiff.” Be genuine if you want the best results. Consider these steps in the process:

    1. Identify the recipient.  Your approach will differ, depending on your reader.  “Dear Mom” is different from a “Dear John,” as is a “To whom it may concern” and one that begins with “Dearest Love.”

     2. Understand the reason for your letter.  This speaks to “results.” You can write to inform, educate, demonstrate, win the argument, persuade, move the reader to act, express sympathy, go for the laugh, and more.

     3. Choose your tone. Match it with the objective in #2. It’s important that your writing is conversational, however, the approach can be casual or formal. (This  is created with your word choice and sentence length.) A condolence letter would not begin with a joke or use short sentences, bursting with exclamation marks and flip statements. Nor would you move someone to action by using long, laborious sentences full of detailed, descriptive copy.

     4. Be sincere. People don't want to be pushed or sold to, bullied or boondoggled. Let your words and ideas speak clearly, honestly, and to the point. After all, you have something important to say and want the reader to consider your words openly and honestly as well.

     5. Use comfortable language.  This speaks to #4. If you never say “utmost,” then, don't use it. Instead, use “complete.” Never say “endeavor”? Then, use “try.” To communicate most effectively, make your words REAL.

     To write the most effective letter possible, project your true character and share an honest conversation with words and ideas that are the most comfortable for you and the recipient. PS: Remember to proof your letter.