Apology Letter

How to Write an Apology Letter

Apology letter vary greatly in significance and weight. If you have gravely offended someone or done something you seriously regret, the best course of action is to first apologize in person and then send an apology letter as a follow-up. Of course, the format and formality of the letter will depend on the action or event for which you are apologizing, as well as the nature of your relationship with the person to whom you are apologizing. Above all else, simply be sincere.

Some general rules that may help you get started:

Address the person by name (formally, if necessary).

Apologize…at the beginning. This is one instance where it does not pay to embellish your words. Be clear and humble and say you are sorry.

Briefly state what you did wrong. This is the only way to truly acknowledge your wrongdoing. If you avoid the subject, it can come across as insulting to the person to whom you are apologizing.

Send the letter as soon as possible. This can often repair damage and even save relationships before the damage becomes too great.

Begin rebuilding trust by promising sincerely that the offense will not happen again.

Hand-write your apology on a piece of Personal stationery. Typed letters are too stiff and impersonal for your heartfelt apology

SAMPLE LETTER

Apology For Missed Meeting

(your name, street

city, state, zip)

(date)

(name

street

city, state, zip)

____________________

Dear ____ (name):

There is absolutely no excuse for my not meeting with you for _______

(breakfast, lunch, dinner) ______ (time) or at least not getting word for you.

The appointment was written on my calendar but somehow I thought our

meeting was for next ____ (day).  Please forgive me.

I am eager to talk to you and will call on ____ (day) to see if we can arrange

a meeting before you leave town.  I will not let you down this time.

Respectfully,

(name)

(title)