Category:Correspondence

What we write represents us to the vast number of members and others. They may never see us personally, and therefore, must base their appraisal of us on our letters to them. Spelling errors reflect carelessness which should not characterize an engineer’s work. Misspelling persons’ names is especially undesirable. Standard form for a business letter requires the mailing address of sender (if these are not part of the printed letterhead), and the complete date usually above and toward the right of the body of the letter. An inside address should be included above the salutation. A letter between members who are not on a first name basis should bear a salutation in the form, “Dear Brother Lastname:.” A standard complimentary close should be used except between Theta Tau members who should sign their letters and emails “In H and T,.” The signature of the sender handwritten in ink should always appear below the complimentary close. Letters, completed forms, and clippings must be sent as first class mail; however, the use of registered, certified, or overnight mail for sending such items involves an unnecessary expense.

Follow the above guidance for letters whenever possible when drafting email or text messages. Since email has become a common form of business communication, it is unwise to use text abbreviations/shorthand in email messages. Never assume that the reader will know you based on your email address. Include a salutation at the start of the message (even if just a first name) and a closing at the end (even if just an email footer). Be alert to whether you are responding to an individual or a multiple persons. If a sensitive topic has been raised, do not hesitate to respond with a phone call instead of another email message. Never include Theta Tau Ritual secrets or signs in a message, attachment, or photo/image.