Crafting the Exteriors- Essential Tips for Writing the Outside of a Professional Letter

How to Write the Outside of a Letter

Writing a letter can be a personal and thoughtful way to communicate with someone. However, the outside of a letter is equally important as it is the first thing the recipient sees. Properly addressing and formatting the outside of a letter can leave a lasting impression and ensure that your message reaches its intended destination. In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing the outside of a letter, from choosing the right envelope to addressing it correctly.

Choosing the Right Envelope

The first step in writing the outside of a letter is selecting the appropriate envelope. Consider the following factors when choosing an envelope:

1. Size: Make sure the envelope is large enough to accommodate the letter, but not too large to look unprofessional. Common sizes include 10, 9, and 6 3/4.

2. Color: Choose a color that complements the letter and is not too distracting. Neutral colors like white, beige, or cream are often preferred.

3. Material: Opt for a sturdy envelope that won’t easily tear or bend. envelopes made from recycled materials are a great eco-friendly option.

4. Design: While a plain envelope is often sufficient, you can choose an envelope with a simple design or pattern to add a touch of personality.

Addressing the Envelope

Once you have the right envelope, it’s time to address it. Follow these steps to ensure your letter is properly addressed:

1. Write the recipient’s name and address in the top left corner of the envelope. Use a clear, legible font and capitalize the first letter of each word.

2. Include the recipient’s street address, city, state, and ZIP code. Be sure to double-check for any spelling or punctuation errors.

3. In the center of the envelope, write the return address. This is the address where the recipient should send any replies. Again, use a clear, legible font and capitalize the first letter of each word.

4. Below the return address, write the date. This helps the recipient keep track of when the letter was sent.

5. If you are sending the letter to a business, include the company name and title of the recipient in the address. For example: “John Smith, Manager, ABC Company.”

Sealing the Envelope

After addressing the envelope, it’s time to seal it. Follow these steps to ensure your letter is secure:

1. Place a stamp in the upper-right corner of the envelope. Make sure the stamp is properly affixed and covers the entire top-right corner.

2. Fold the envelope in half and seal the flap with a sticker or a moistened stamp. If you are using a sticker, place it over the top-right corner of the stamp.

3. Check that the envelope is sealed tightly and that there are no gaps or loose flaps.

Final Touches

Before sending your letter, take a moment to review the outside. Make sure the address is legible, the stamp is properly affixed, and the envelope is sealed securely. You may also want to add a personal touch, such as a handwritten note or a decorative sticker, to make your letter stand out.

By following these steps, you can write the outside of a letter that is both professional and personal. Remember, the outside of a letter is the first impression the recipient will have, so take the time to make it count.