When it comes to writing business letters, there are several elements that need to be considered. One such element is the reference initials. In this article, we will discuss what reference initials are, and whether they are necessary in a business letter.
Explanation of Reference Initials
Reference initials are a set of initials that are placed at the bottom of a business letter. They indicate who typed the letter and who is responsible for its content. Reference initials are usually placed on the left-hand side of the page, below the signature line.
Tips for Including Reference Initials
If you are including reference initials in your business letter, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure the initials are legible and clearly visible.
- Include the initials of the person who typed the letter, followed by the initials of the person who is responsible for the content.
- Consider using a standard format for reference initials, such as “MJM/ps” (with the initials of the typist first, followed by the initials of the content author).
- Double-check that the reference initials are accurate before sending the letter.
Examples of Reference Initials in Business Letters
Confirmation Letter
Dear Ms. Johnson,
Thank you for choosing our company to provide your office furniture. This letter confirms the delivery and installation of your order on August 1, 2021. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
John Smith
MSB/js
Cover Letter for Resume
Dear Hiring Manager,
Please find attached my resume for the position of Marketing Manager at XYZ Company. I have over 5 years of experience in the marketing industry and am confident that my skills and experience would make a valuable contribution to your team.
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
JDC/ls
Frequently Asked Questions
What are reference initials in a business letter?
Reference initials are a set of initials that are placed at the bottom of a business letter. They indicate who typed the letter and who is responsible for its content.
Do I need to include reference initials in my business letters?
Reference initials are not always necessary in a business letter. However, if you are sending a formal letter, or if you are sending the letter on behalf of someone else, it may be appropriate to include reference initials.
How do I format reference initials in a business letter?
Reference initials are usually formatted with the initials of the typist first, followed by the initials of the content author. For example, “MJM/ps”.
Can I include reference initials if I am the only one writing the letter?
Yes, you can include reference initials even if you are the only one writing the letter. This can help to indicate that you are responsible for the content of the letter.
Where should I place reference initials in my business letter?
Reference initials are usually placed on the left-hand side of the page, below the signature line.
What should I do if I make a mistake in the reference initials?
If you make a mistake in the reference initials, you should cross them out and write the correct initials next to them. Make sure that the corrected reference initials are legible and clearly visible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, reference initials can be an important element of a business letter, particularly in formal or professional settings. If you choose to include reference initials in your letter, make sure that they are accurate, legible, and clearly visible.