Business English Writing Tip – Writing an email requesting information

We often need to write an email to ask for more information. It is usually easier to write an email than to talk on the phone!

Here are some common things to ask for information about . . .

A hotel – about vacancies, room rates, etc.

A company – about a product they sell, or other general information

A tour guide – about their different packages, costs, and services

A school – for information about their courses and requirements

Also, when you work at a company you probably need to ask customers and other companies about their needs.

Is there any special language I need to use when writing this kind of email?

This type of email is a little formal (semi-formal) so it is a good idea to use indirect questions.

Look at how the following direct questions are written as indirect questions.

What time will the course start?

Could you please let me know what time the course will start?

How much does the course cost?

I would be grateful if you could tell me how much the course costs.

Do I need to do a test when I arrive?

I would like to know if I need to do a test when I arrive.

Sample email – useful phrases are in red.

To: learn@academy.com.tw

Re: Business English Courses

Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to request information about your Business English courses. I am a financial advisor and I have just started working in a multinational company. Although my business vocabulary is good, I still find it difficult to communicate and understand some of my foreign colleagues. Could you please let me know how long the courses are, how much they cost, and at what time they are taught? Also, I was wondering if you have courses to teach presentation skills. I need to give presentations to my foreign clients in English. I would be grateful if you could send this information soon. I need to make a decision this week. Regards, Bill Wang

Please feel free to use this letter or make some changes to it to suit your needs.

- Ben