Adjustment Letters
Replies to complaint letters, often called letters of "adjustment," must be handled carefully when the requested compensation cannot be granted. Refusal of compensation tests your diplomacy and tact as a writer. Here are some suggestions that may help you write either type of adjustment letter:
Begin with a reference to the date of the original letter of complaint and to the purpose of your letter. If you deny the request, don't state the refusal right away unless you can do so tactfully.
Express your concern over the writer's troubles and your appreciation that he has written you.
If you deny the request, explain the reasons why the request cannot be granted in as cordial and noncombative manner as possible. If you grant the request, don't sound as if you are doing so in a begrudging way.
If you deny the request, try to offer some partial or substitute compensation or offer some friendly advice (to take the sting out of the denial).
Conclude the letter cordially, perhaps expressing confidence that you and the writer will continue doing business.
Return to the table of contents for the Online Technical Writing Course Guide (the online textbook for online technical communication courses at Austin Community College and other institutions worldwide).concern for the customer. Toward the end of the letter, express confidence that the recipient will grant your request.