How to Write Good News

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—Bite-sized advice for better business writing—

June 11, 2019

How to Write Good News

“Other people's successes are good news—for them and for you. Good for you because they show you a way to go.”

— Steve Wynn

Who doesn’t love good news? We love receiving it and sending it. Neutral news, while not as exciting, can also be a pleasure to receive and send. It often delivers some very useful information.

Whether writing good or neutral news, use the SEA organizational strategy to get your message across clearly, quickly, and effectively.

SEA Graphic

Opening (Situation)

Present your main point right at the start, either as a statement, question, or request. 

  1. Congratulations! You are the winner of the Happy Home makeover contest.
  2. Have you considered how your current savings plan will affect your retirement years?
  3. Thank you for your recent purchase of the X50 Copier. We would appreciate your feedback on the enclosed prepaid survey card.

Middle (Explanation)

Support your main point with details, keeping your tone positive.

  1. Your entry was selected from the hundreds received.
  2. We would like to invite you to a free seminar explaining the different plans available to you.
  3. You have long been a valued customer, and we want to be sure you are satisfied with your latest purchase.

Ending (Action)

If an action is required, include next steps along with contact information.

  1. Our representative will be contacting you by phone within the next two weeks to answer any questions and begin your home’s makeover process.
  2. Please RSVP with the enclosed card so we can know how many people are interested in attending.
  3. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at 231-555-8925 or email us at customers@_____.com.
If no action is needed, simply close in a polite, professional manner.
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Play the Editor!

Reorder these good- or neutral-news messages so that they follow the SEA pattern. (Scroll to the bottom of the newsletter to see our recommendations.)

1.  Credit approval announcement

Dear Mr. Bostwick:

I have enclosed a brochure describing our credit policies and procedures in more detail. Please call me (655-555-3321) if you have any questions.

Here are some details concerning your account: You will be billed the first day of the month; the balance is due within 30 days, interest free; and any balance owed beyond 30 days will be subject to a 15 percent annual finance charge.

Thank you for requesting a credit account at Cottonwood Hills Greenhouse and Florist Supply. We are pleased to extend you $100,000 in credit based on Dale’s Garden Center’s strong financial condition. Congratulations!

Sincerely, 

Salome Nguru


2. Recommendation email

Hi Josie, 

Mona has demonstrated those traits that Slenk Manufacturing most values in its graphic artists: creativity, dependability, and the ability to work well with others.

For the past 18 months, Mona Veal has done outstanding work as a part-time graphic artist in our Marketing Department. I recommend that she be promoted to full-time status and be given the necessary $5.50 per hour wage increase and full benefits.

Please let me know by August 16 whether you approve this promotion. I’d like Mona to begin full-time work on September 1.


Wishing you well, 

Ike Harris
Art Director
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Get More Support

Check out Write for Business online for more strategies for organizing your business writing.
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Editor's Recommendation

1.  Credit approval announcement

Dear Mr. Bostwick:

Thank you for requesting a credit account at Cottonwood Hills Greenhouse and Florist Supply. We are pleased to extend you $100,000 in credit based on Dale’s Garden Center’s strong financial condition. Congratulations!

Here are some details concerning your account: You will be billed the first day of the month; the balance is due within 30 days, interest-free; and any balance owed beyond 30 days will be subject to a 15 percent annual finance charge.

I have enclosed a brochure describing our credit policies and procedures in more detail. Please call me (655-555-3321) if you have any questions.

Sincerely, 

Salome Nguru


2. Recommendation email

Hi Josie, 

For the past 18 months, Mona Veal has done outstanding work as a part-time graphic artist in our Marketing Department. I recommend that she be promoted to full-time status and be given the necessary $5.50 per hour wage increase and full benefits.

Mona has demonstrated those traits that Slenk Manufacturing most values in its graphic artists: creativity, dependability, and the ability to work well with others.

Please let me know by August 16 whether you approve this promotion. I’d like Mona to begin full-time work on September 1.


Wishing you well, 

Ike Harris
Art Director

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