Writing business letters requesting for commission

Marcus Lim · 10-20-2005, 09:48 PM

Dear all,
A friend recommended an opening for portrait commission in an organization. The organization recommends writing in just to get a sure deal (red tape...sigh)

However, i've absolutely no idea how to approach for sales in person, let alone writing business letters to them! Gosh!

So i hope you can share your experiences, and maybe graciously you can sharing a sample letter you've written, on how i can best approach them. I'd really appreciate your help.

marcus

Michele Rushworth · 10-20-2005, 11:19 PM

A business letter for something like this should include:

Your "letterhead" which can simply be your name and address at the top.

The date.

The name and address of the person you are writing to.

The "salutation" (Dear Mr. So and So,)

The "body" of the letter which should contain the following:

An intro paragraph saying why you are writing. "I am writing to let you know about my work as a portrait artist. I understand you are looking for an artist to create a fine portrait in oils of Mr. Such and Such....." etc.

Then have a paragraph about your credentials (key awards, training, high profile commissions)

Then a final paragraph thanking them for looking at the examples of your work (assuming you have enclosed three or four 8x10 great photos of similar types of portraits you have already done) and suggesting they contact you for more information.

This is all followed by the "closing" (Sincerely, Yours truly, or something like that)

Then a space for your signature, then your typed name.

This should all fit on one page and is called your "cover letter". Very basic and simple. If you want to include lots of biographical material, put it on a separate page or two entitled "About the Artist" or "Biography".

Do a Google search on how to write basic business letters to see how it should all look. I'm sure there are plenty of sites with more info on this sort of thing.

Stick it all in a big flat envelope, mail it and a week later phone them. Ask if they got the materials and ask if you can set an appointment to come in and meet them in person.

Then cross your fingers and see what happens! Good luck!

Marcus Lim · 10-31-2005, 10:52 PM

Hi Michele,
I forgot to tell you how much i appreciate your thoughts on the subject. I'm very sure these words would be most helpful to anyone who's starting out on the portrait business.
Thanks very much!