J. Hamilton Jones

J. Hamilton has both business and law degrees. He was a professional speaker for 15 years and spoke throughout the U.S. to corporations and associations on business writing. He wrote two books, "Write Business Letters Right," and "Business Letters That Get Results." The first is no longer available. He recommended that we challenge conventional letter-writing wisdom and throw out conventional salutations like "Dear..." and "Sincerely" or "Yours truly." He suggests:

1. Replace traditional salutations and complementary closes with "Creative Substitutions"

or headlines to create interest."

2. Do not say "thank you" first. Instead, first praise the deed or performance you are

thanking someone for. Next, tell the why. Then, say "thanks."

3. Avoid weasel words like "thank you in advance," "please" consider, "I hope" you will....

Rather use imperative sentences with commands: "Join" us," "think results," "Examine"

the proposal.