How to Write an Edgy Letter

Composing an edgy letter is easier than you think.

Writing an edgy letter can showcase several things about the you and your message, whether it's a query letter for a job, a letter of interest for a promotion or a letter of concern to your legislature. Choosing the right audience, voice and attitude make a letter of this nature lively and interesting, and might be just what sets your letter apart from others. Use bold language and distinctive phrasing to make your letter memorable.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Word-processing program

Instructions

1. Addressing a letter to a specific person is more effective than addressing it to an unidentified, general addressee. Research the name of the department head, the legislative leader or the specific hiring manager the letter is intended to reach. If you do not have a specific name, use "To Whom It May Concern."

2. Write in an active voice with a concise delivery. Using outdated forms of speech or passive sentences makes readers lose interest in your message. Be authoritative and assertive, and stay on the subject at hand.

3. Use only reliable and current research for all facts in your letter. Research does not have to be limited to the specific purpose of your letter. If you are writing an query letter about a job opening, find out if there's any positive media attention the company may have recently received and mention it in the letter. This adds edge and freshness to your letter, and will grab the reader's attention.

4. Use optimistic and pointed vocabulary that will show the reader that you are confident and committed to your message. The book "Spunk and Bite" states that edgy language demands "surprise, exuberance, responsiveness, intensity" and "rebelliousness" on the part of the writer.

5. Be fresh, above all. Steer clear of old metaphors, adverbs and adjectives that are overused. Creating more vivid and fresh imagery for your reader will give your letter more edge and personality.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the composition resources that are built in to most word-processing programs, such as spell-check and grammar-check, to ensure your letter is grammatically correct before sending it out.

• Do not submit handwritten letters.

References

• "Spunk and Bite: A Writer's Guide to Bold, Contemporary Style"; Arthur Plotnik; 2007

Resources

• "Writer's Digest" magazine; Write Knock-Dead Query Letters; Jeffrey D. Zbar; Feb. 2008
• "The New York Times Dictionary of Misunderstood, Misused ... "; Laurence Urdang; 2002