Advanced Consumer Tactics 101 – How to Write effective Complaints Letters

Posted by Louise Servage on March 22, 2010

If you are anything like me then you have an unfailing talent for picking the spoiled tin of beans out of the 100 odd tins on the shelf – and the unenviable task of having to complain about it later. Let’s face it, probably the only thing more odious and undesirable than exploding Lima beans is writing the associated complaints letter after the fact.

A complaints letter need not be something to dread of put off. If one sticks to one or two basic principles of effective letter writing and exercises a little diplomacy, tact and restraint, the out come will almost certainly be successful every time.

Just remember, as a consumer it is your undeniable right to demand the best quality in the products and services you use. Writing a complaints letter is the only way to resolve disputes when you don’t and ensures that other consumers don’t fall foul of the same issue.

When writing a complaints letter there are a few things to keep in mind that will ensure you always get the attention of the right people in the right way and in the interests of a speedy and satisfactory resolution to any dispute.

Remember what the purpose of the complaint is. Don’t be tempted to drift off into a tirade regarding the general bad service at a store if you only want a pint of sour milk refunded. Stick to the specifics and don’t get sidetracked.

Try and find out who the specific individual is that should deal with your complaint and address the letter directly to them. Letters addressed to “Dear Sir” or “To whom it may concern” tend to end up getting “lost” along the way. Addressing the letter specifically also establishes accountability early on.

Start the letter on a positive note. Give credit where it is due and kick off by mentioning all the positives about the business before you bring up the complaint. This usually does wonders for the resolution process.

Always be honest about the complaint. Exaggerating or embellishing the facts will discredit you right from the start and you will not have a leg to stand on. Maintain your credibility by being 100% factual at all times.

Keep the letter brief and to the point. Be absolutely honest about the facts involved, embellishment of the facts can kill a complaint in its tracks. Do not ever be overtly aggressive or abusive, and never allow a complaint letter to become a personal attack.

Always include all supporting documents with the letter. Make copies of all receipts and cash register slips and attach them to the letter. Copies of any previous correspondence regarding the complaint should also be included. And remember, 90% of the time the person on the receiving end wants a satisfactory out come as well.

Looking to find the best deal on complaint letter, then visit www.complaintsletter.com to find the best advice on complaint letters for you.

How to Write A Social Letter Film: Writing Better Social Letters (1950) [DVD] – Proper Form for Letter Writing, Personal Thank You Letter Writing & Writing Formal Invitation Letter Film [Vintage] (1950)

Posted by qpen on November 8, 2009

Writing Better Social Letters is an educational film staring two teenagers, Nora and her older brother Walter, who learn how to write an effective social letter. Nora can’t seem to get her thank-you letter right, so Walter becomes her letter writing tutor and helps her through explanation and examples of proper letter writing. He tells her that a letter should sound like her normal speaking voice instead of overly formal and stilted. When Nora wonders why she should even bother, (more…)