Condolence Letter Writing Tips

Letters of condolence should always be handwritten. They must be written with tact and sincerity. Write promptly after the person’s loss.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Show the person that you care and you have been affected by the loss.
• Keep the letter sincere. Write from the heart.
• Use a compassionate and sorrowful tone.
• Include specific details about the person’s admirable traits.
• Don’t try to show that your loss is greater than the person’s loss. It isn’t.
• Don’t rehash the tragedy and the gory details.
• Don’t tell them their loved one is in a better place. They may not share your value system.
• Don’t offer something you can’t deliver.
• Don’t use stock phrases from greeting cards.