What should be accomplished in the opening of a request for a recommendation?

A) The deadline for sending the letter should be mentioned.
B) The reader's memory of the relationship he/she had with the person referred should be triggered.
C) The full name and address of the person to whom the letter should be sent should be obvious.
D) An offer to pay for the service rendered should be included.
E) A neutral buffer statement or statements should be included.

Answer: B
Explanation: B) Requests for recommendations and references are routine, so you can organize your inquiry using the direct approach. Open your message by clearly stating why the recommendation is required and that you would like your reader to write the letter. If you haven't had contact with the person for some time, use the opening to trigger the reader's memory of the relationship you had, the dates of association, and any special events that might bring a clear and favorable picture of you to mind.