What is the difference between memos and business letters

What is Letter? Main Differences Between Memo and Letter Both letter and memo are a non-verbal mode of communication that is express through writing. The memo is the informal nature of communication used for internal conversation in business. On the other hand, letters are formal and informal in communication, which helps exchange words from clients or send a message to friends.

A memo written by a person is more in point, as the message is very short while the letters are longer than the memo. It is not one to one communication, while the letters are one to one interpersonal communication as it is private.

No signature is required by writing the memo while the signature is required by writing a letter. Memo uses technical terms in writing content, while letter uses simple terms while writing content. A memo is generally a business message used for business purposes to communicate between one department to another or one firm to another. A letter is a communication mode whose purpose is to convey messages or information or explain situations from one to another. The letter is interchanged between the clients of the business or between the friends or from employee to head management of the organization.

It contains more words and information and uses formal language. Each word in a business letter is carefully selected and planned for since it is intended for communicating with people who are vital to a business or company. It addresses a specific topic and is sent to specific individuals.

It can be as long as the sender wants it to be and is meant to be read only by the intended recipient. It is usually sent through a courier or delivered by a representative of the company.

There is another way of communication in a business setting. It is usually intended for internal communication, that is, it is used to convey messages within the organization or business. It is called a memorandum or memo. A memo is usually informal, short, concise, and to the point. It is used to call a meeting or to call an individual to action. It has a header which indicates where it comes from, who it is addressed to, the date, and the subject of the memo.

It can be addressed to a single person or to all of the people in the company. It is never sent outside. Letters are used for internal and external communication.

It has also large usage beyond the scope of an organization. A memo does not require return address, salutation or complimentary clause.

Memo can use technical jargon and abbreviations because their meaning is understood by the people within the organization.

Letters are more detailed and often elaborate more on the important issues to be done or addressed. A memo does not require a return address, salutation, or complimentary close. It uses: To, From, Date and Subject heading. A letter requires an inside address. Salutation and complimentary close.