Chapter 8 Sample Request

After reading Chapter 8, which discusses strategies for requests, the reader is able to analyze this sample request. A major piece to notice is the tone used in the letter. On page 216, of the course textbook, "Excellence in Business Communication", it vividly outlines to the reader to, "Pay attention to tone" (Thill, Bovee, Cross 216). For example, in this letter Josh uses phrases like, "I would like," which is not a demanding action, but a soft one instead. In this request, the councillor is requesting for an action to be taken in a very simple yet effective approach. Simple or straight forward requests require the writer to address what they want to know, or what they want the reader to know, which the councillor has done by explaining

Levy will comply, by closing with important elements, demonstrated on page 217, Chapter 8. The first element was that the specific request was stated, by saying that he is writing to "request an opportunity to visit the sign in storage" The second element is how he can be reached, which was given in an obvious way and by him saying, "please contact my office." The last element is an expression of appreciation. He expresses appreciation or gratitude by signing off with "sincerely" at the end of the letter. In this request, the councillor is requesting for an action to be taken in a very simple yet effective

Matlow described how completing this request would benefit Sheldon Levy, the President of Ryerson University. He states “..reassure the residents that Ryerson University has gone to lengths to protect and preserve…”. If the President finds benefit in preserving the image of the university, he is more likely to comply with the request. This is a tactic used to justify a request as described in chapter 8 of “Excellence in Business Communication”. He also stresses the importance of the request by using phrases such as “commensurate with its civic importance.”, “This beloved icon...” or “...rumours...that the sign has been damaged beyond repair or even destroyed”. This is an effective tactic from Mr. Matlow because it addresses the feelings for the emotional importance of the sign for the community. With the community behind the request, Mr. Levy may be more apt to comply with the