Chapter 2-Inquiries and Replies

convey messages.
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Business English Writing Practice (2nd Edition)
商务英语写作实训（第二版）
Contents
Get Started Compose Your Message Sample Study Read for Reference Check Yourself
Chapter 2
Amendments •The paragraph of selfintroduction with wordy expressions (Some are domestic, some are foreign). •Too much introduction is a waste of time for business people.
商务英语写作实训（第二版）
“十二五”规划商务英语高职高专系列教材
Inquiries and Replies
Business English Writing Practice (2nd Edition)
Chapter 2
商务英语写作实训（第二版）
Objectives
Chapter 2
Use proper tone in asking questions; Learn to compose inquiry letters and their replies; Get to know when to use direct approach to
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Business English Writing Practice (2nd Edition)
商务英语写作实训（第二版）
Sample Study 1: Inquiry about Home Textile Products
Dear Sirs,
Chapter 2
We owe your name and address to the Canadian Consulate in Shanghai who has informed us that you are one of the largest exporters of textiles in Shanghai and that you wish to extend export business to our market. Briefly explain how you get the requested information You will be pleased to note that we are importers of home textile products, having over 20 years’ experience in this particular line of business. Make a brief self-introduction to establish a good image.
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Business English Writing Practice (2nd Edition)
Any Problems?
商务英语写作实训（第二版）
Listen to Mr. Tutorial
Well-done • Cindy is clever to keep commercial secret; • Cindy adopted the full block style in writing this letter; •She first made a brief introduction to her company.
could send me your catalogue and price list for bicycles.
If you will allow us a special discount, we would like to place an order with you. Looking forward to your reply Best regards, Cindy
商务英语写作实训（第二版）
General Structure of Inquiry letters
Chapter 2
Step 3 Step 2 Step 1 1. source of recipient (if it's an initial business letter) 2. brief selfintroduction 3. reasons for inquiry
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Business English Writing Practice (2nd Edition)
商务英语写作实训（第二版）
Listen to Mr. Tutorial
Try to add one more paragraph to this inquiry:
In the circumstances please indicate whether you will allow us a special discount. This would enable us to maintain the low selling prices, which have been an important reason for the growth of our business. In return we would be prepared to place orders for a guaranteed annual minimum number of bicycles, the figure to be mutually agreed.
Importance of an inq
Offer / Quote
the first step of a business transaction
Nature of an inquiry In foreign trade an inquiry is usually (not absolutely) made by the potential buyer without engagement, requesting for information on the supply of certain goods. So we call it 询盘 or 询价 in Chinese.
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Specific inquiry: samples price discount packing methods terms of shipment terms of payment insurance…
1. deadline of the reply 2. your hope for a reply 3. goodwill
Chapter 2
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Business English Writing Practice (2nd Edition)
商务英语写作实训（第二版）
Lead-in
Dear Sir,
Chapter 2
We are one of the leading bicycle dealers in Dubai, and we have an office in Zhuhai, China. We sell many brands of products. Some are domestic, some are foreign. Our company has been established for almost ten years. We have a good reputation in this line. Our customers are very interested in your bicycles for both men and women, and also for children. I would appreciate it very much if you
3. Inquiries should be brief, specific, courteous, reasonable and to the point.
4. In return, Its replies should be prompt, courteous and helpful.
Business English Writing Practice (2nd Edition)
Business English Writing Practice (2nd Edition)
商务英语写作实训（第二版）
General Structure of Replies
Chapter 2
Step 3 Step 2 Step 1
1. respond to the inquiry acceptance: relative information enclosed decline: reason for decline 2. additional information of your company
At present, we are keenly interested in home textiles made in China and will be pleased if you kindly send us your latest price list and catalogue for all kinds of home textiles specifying sizes and designs. If possible, please also send us your sample book. Briefly explain why you are writing and request the action.
Business English Writing Practice (2nd Edition)
Counter-offer