Clint Eastwood is famous for his famous quote “Go ahead punk, make my day”. Keep that phrase in mind and think of that low-paid, overworked employee who has to read ten letters per hour and verify them. How can you write a letter that not only stops them long enough to consider what you are asking, but may in fact make them feel good about what they are doing if even for a short while?
Don’t you enjoy receiving a letter from someone who cares about regardless of whether you are having a good day or not? These types of letters, if written properly, are highly effective. Place yourself again in the employee’s shoes. She has just opened seven letters that all started out the same. Some are irate, some are con jobs and some are downright stupid because the poor soul who wrote has no writing skills. Now here comes your letter across her desk with a “Thank You” – isn’t that a nice, and clever way, to change their mental state and get them interested in what you have to say? Here you are thanking them for something they have not even done yet. Thin they might read on further?
This may be the ONLY letter they read all day they actually follow up on. So, open your letter with “thank you for the opportunity to ask for your help”. I am confused with some information in my credit files and hope you can assist me with your knowledge”. “I do not agree with some information that is currently being reported to your company and hope that you can help me straighten these matters out”. Yes it is simple, gushy and friendly but a sincere way of asking for help.
Be forewarned about one critical point. DO NOT dispute something that you know is correct. That will come back to haunt you.
Just remember the cardinal in writing a letter of dispute. Tell them what they want to hear (a friendly greeting). Tell them what you want to say (your analysis of your credit reports). And finally, tell them what you told them (a recap of your greeting, recognition of their professionalism and your problems). When you master the art of writing a letter with these guidelines, you will totally be amazed at the results.
Don’t be frustrated either. Keep in mind your ultimate goal of getting financing for a home, car, or boat. It requires work that must be done right and this requires time.
Good luck and look for next article coming soon – What to do when a bill collector fails to respond.
