Unit 18 Inquiry.pptVIP

Unit 18 Inquiry Basic Knowledge of Practical English Writing Writing Tips Inquiry In business, inquiry is the very beginning of transaction. It usually means that the buyer asks the seller about the goods which he or she wants to buy. Through inquiry, the buyer can briefly get some information related to prices, terms of transaction etc. Types 1. General inquiry: asking for common data, such as the catalogue, price list, samples and pictures, etc. 2. Specific inquiry: specifical inquiry about name of commodity, specifications, quality, unit price, date of shipment, payment terms and packing, etc. Writing Tips Contents 1. If the seller is the buyer’s constant supplier, at the beginning, you （the buyer） can tell him what goods and services you are interested in. And next you can ask him to send you the catalogue, price list, sample and terms of transaction, etc. At the end, you can request him to pay attention to your inquiry and give you an early reply. 2. If the seller is your new supplier, at the beginning, you can express that you would like to establish business relationship with him. And the next two parts should be written in the same way as 1. Characteristics The inquiry letter should be brief, specific, polite and direct; possibly using a title to make the letter more clearly. Writing Tips Writing Tips Reply Receiving an inquiry means that you (the seller) has the opportunity to succeed in business. And you should give a reply within two days. If you can’t answer the letter in time because of some special reasons, you should give the buyer an explanation. When replying, you should not only use proper words but also make its content complete showing your having paid much attention to the inquiry. Contents 1. In the opening part, thank the buyer’s inquiry. 2. In the following part: (1) Answering some questions and tell the buyer the enclosed data such as the catalogue, price lis