20+ Business Writing Examples to Enhance Your Writing Skills

Effective professional communication is the backbone of business success. Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to attract investors, a marketing team creating persuasive campaigns, a manager tired of rewriting team documents, or a student studying business communication, mastering business writing is key to conveying information clearly and professionally. Strong writing skills help build relationships, close deals, and keep operations running smoothly with ease, as seen in various business writing examples.

Business writing refers to any form of written communication used in a professional setting. Business writing examples ensure that ideas are communicated clearly and that all parties are aligned. Whether you’re writing an email, drafting a proposal, or creating a business report, knowing how to craft clear, concise, and audience-focused business communication is invaluable.
Let's explore the various types of business writing examples that can help enhance your professional writing skills.

Types of Business Writing

Business writing examples come in many forms, each serving a unique purpose:

Instructional Business Writing

This type of writing provides detailed instructions or guidelines for completing specific tasks. Business writing examples of instructional writing include training manuals, procedure documents, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Clear and concise writing is essential to ensure that readers can follow the instructions easily and without confusion.

Informational Business Writing

Informational business writing focuses on conveying data or updates without requiring the reader to take action. This includes business writing examples like reports, memos, and meeting minutes. These documents are often shared internally to ensure that all team members are informed about business activities or progress.

Transactional Business Writing

Transactional writing involves day-to-day communication within a business. Business writing examples include emails, invoices, and formal letters. This type of writing for business should be professional, but also engaging and warm, as it often involves direct communication with clients or colleagues.

Persuasive Business Writing

Persuasive business writing is used to convince the reader to take a specific action, such as approving a proposal or making a purchase. Examples include marketing emails, business proposals, and sales letters. The goal is to use compelling language and structured business writing examples to influence decision-making.

Business Writing Examples

Let’s dive into 20+ business writing samples of different formats you might encounter in the workplace:

1. Business Emails

Emails are the most common form of effective communication in business. Whether you’re sending a formal request or a quick update, strong email writing ensures that your message is clear and to the point, as shown in business writing examples.

Tip: Always consider your audience, avoid overly long or complicated messages, and end with an action-eliciting conclusion.

2. Business Reports

Reports, such as financial or analytical reports, are used to convey important information. Business writing examples of reports require a clear structure, with headings and subheadings to guide the reader through the content.

Tip: Use data to support your claims, organize it logically, and use headings and white space to allow readers to scan for the information they need.

3. Proposals

Business proposals outline a plan or solution to a problem. Business writing examples of proposals are usually written to persuade decision-makers to approve an idea or investment.

Tip: Focus on the unique value and solution you bring to the potential client. Avoid the common “let-me-tell-you-about-me” mistake that is far too common in proposals.

4. Meeting Agendas

A meeting agenda provides a clear outline of the topics to be discussed in a meeting. Business writing examples of agendas ensure everyone is aligned before the meeting begins.

Tip: Keep the agenda concise, listing only the most important points and allocate time to each discussion topic.

5. Business Letters

Business letters are formal documents used for various purposes, such as requests, notifications, or contract negotiations. The business letter format typically includes a heading, salutation, body, closing, and signature. 

Tip: Business letters lean more formal than email, so match tone appropriately.

6. Memorandums (Memos)

Memos are used for internal communication to share updates, changes, or instructions with employees. They are typically short and focused. 

Tip: Use bullet points or numbered lists for easy readability.

7. Press Releases

A press release is used to share important company news with the media or the public. Business writing examples of press releases provide key details about an announcement.

Tip: Write a compelling headline to engage readers.

8. Sales Letters

Sales letters are written to persuade potential customers to purchase a product or service. They use persuasive language to highlight the benefits and features of the offering. 

Tip: Focus on the next steps you want in the sales process, not on the final sale. Sales writing often requires several rounds of communication, which we call “persuasive hops.” Be sure you are focused on the right hop. 

9. Instructional Guides

Instructional guides provide step-by-step directions on how to complete a task. These documents require clarity and attention to detail. 

Tip: Break the content into small, manageable steps with visuals.

10. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

SOPs are critical for maintaining operational consistency. They detail the exact steps required to complete tasks and ensure that all employees follow the same procedures. 

Tip: Write in a clear, step-by-step manner that both technical and non-technical readers can understand. 

11. Meeting Minutes

Minutes are taken during meetings to capture key points, decisions, and action items. They are distributed afterward to ensure that everyone is on the same page. 

Tip: Focus on summarizing rather than recording everything verbatim. Highline the next steps needed and who is responsible for these steps. 

12. Newsletters

Business newsletters keep employees or clients informed about updates, announcements, or industry trends.

Tip: Use a clear structure with engaging headlines and visuals to capture attention.

13. Job Descriptions

Job descriptions outline the responsibilities, skills, and qualifications required for a specific role. 

Tip: Be specific about duties and expectations to attract the right candidates. Identify requirements clearly.

14. Policies and Procedures

These documents provide employees with guidelines for following company rules and regulations. They are important for maintaining order and compliance. 

Tip: Use simple language to avoid confusion and ensure understanding.

15. Contracts

Contracts are legal documents outlining the terms of an agreement between two or more parties. They must be clear and precise to avoid disputes. 

Tip: Include all relevant details and review thoroughly before finalizing.

These are just a few business writing samples that professionals use every day. Whether you’re writing an email or drafting a complex report, mastering these forms of writing can greatly improve your professional communication skills and help you succeed in your career.

Example: A Formal Business Letter Requesting Information

[Your Name]

[Your Company Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Email Address]  

[Phone Number]

[Date]

[Recipient’s Name]

[Recipient’s Job Title]  

[Recipient’s Company Name]  

[Company Address]  

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s Name]:

We need information regarding [specific topic, product, or service] for potential procurement. We are in the process of [briefly explain the reason for your request], and the details you provide will be invaluable for our procurement planning.

Please send all relevant materials or documentation to the address above or by email at your earliest convenience. Please include:

• Product specifications
• Pricing
• Delivery availability

Should you require any further clarification regarding this request, do not hesitate to contact me directly.

Thank you for your assistance. I need this information by November 15 to include it in our review.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]  

[Your Job Title]  

[Your Company Name]

Tips: 

• Keep your letter clear and concise, ensuring that your request is specific and to the point. 
• Use a professional tone throughout, and include all necessary contact details for follow-up. 
• Ensure the conclusion specifies clear next actions needed, with a date requirement if applicable. 
• Learn more about correct letter format here.

Example: A Well-Structured Email for Requesting Information or Scheduling a Meeting

Subject Line: Request for Meeting to Discuss Project Updates

Hi [Recipient’s Name],

Let’s meet on Wednesday via Zoom to discuss the latest updates on [Project Name]. It would be helpful to review the current progress and align on the next steps moving forward. 

Please confirm a good time to meet on Wednesday morning. If you’re booked then, please suggest an alternate time that works for you. 

Best regards,

[Your Name]  

[Your Job Title]  

[Your Contact Information]

Tips: 

• Be clear and concise in your message, making sure to address the recipient by name and keep the tone professional. 
• The subject line should give the recipient a quick understanding of the email's purpose.
• Always close politely and clearly outline next steps needed.
• Include your contact information for easy follow-up.

Learn more in our Business Email Course.

Example: A Press Release Based on Actual Business Writing Training

Press Release: Instructional Solutions Delivers Custom Training to Enhance USAA’s Business Writing Skills

For Immediate Release  

[Date]

Instructional Solutions Empowers USAA Employees with Custom Business Writing Training

Princeton, NJ — Instructional Solutions, a leader in corporate writing training, recently partnered with USAA to deliver a tailored business writing course aimed at improving the clarity, efficiency, and effectiveness of internal and external communications. The training program, which focused on enhancing professional writing skills across various departments, has resulted in measurable improvements in USAA’s business operations and communication strategies.

The customized program was developed in response to USAA's unique needs, addressing key challenges such as writing for different audiences, improving clarity in reports, and creating effective business correspondence. Throughout the training, employees were equipped with tools and techniques to streamline their writing processes, leading to clearer, more concise communication that supports the organization's mission to serve its members.

"Working with Instructional Solutions was an exciting opportunity to provide a real impact through effective communication," said [Executive’s Name], Director of Enterprise Intelligence at USAA. "Our goal was to ensure that their teams could express ideas clearly, reduce inefficiencies, and ultimately improve service delivery to members."

Instructional Solutions’ training included hands-on exercises, personalized feedback, and practical applications designed to reinforce learning and enable participants to immediately apply their new skills in real-world scenarios. As a result of the training, USAA has reported increased efficiency in internal communications, higher quality of written reports, and a boost in overall employee confidence in business writing.

For more information about how Instructional Solutions can help improve your company’s communication through tailored business writing courses, visit https://www.instructionalsolutions.com.

Media Contact:  

[Your Name]  

[Your Title]  

Instructional Solutions  

Phone: [Your Contact Number]  

Email: [Your Email Address]  

---

About Instructional Solutions:  

Instructional Solutions provides customized corporate training programs that help companies improve their employees' business writing skills. With courses tailored to meet specific industry needs, Instructional Solutions empowers professionals to communicate more effectively, leading to increased efficiency and better business outcomes.

Tips:

1. Focus on Results and Impact: Highlight measurable outcomes from the training, such as improved communication efficiency and higher-quality reports. This adds credibility and demonstrates the value provided by the service.
2. Tailor the Story to the Audience: The press release emphasizes how Instructional Solutions customized the training to meet USAA’s specific needs. Tailoring content to a target audience (in this case, businesses seeking writing training) makes the story more relevant and engaging.
3. Use a Professional Tone and Clear Structure: The press release follows a formal, professional tone and a clear structure—starting with a strong headline, followed by the problem, solution, and results—ensuring that key information is communicated effectively.
4. Include a Call to Action: The press release ends with a clear call to action, encouraging readers to visit Instructional Solutions' website to learn more. This is essential for driving engagement and converting interest into potential business.

This press release is designed to announce the success of the training delivered to USAA, highlighting the measurable benefits and the custom approach Instructional Solutions provided.

Example: User Manuals

Our article “How to Write a User Manual” showcases user manuals, giving real-world examples of different types of manuals. 

Each of these types serves a specific purpose, from helping users assemble furniture to guiding them through operating complex electronics or software systems.

For example, a setup guide might include detailed instructions on how to assemble a product step by step, often accompanied by diagrams or images to enhance clarity. These manuals are designed for immediate use when a product is unboxed, making it easy for customers to get started without confusion. 

On the other hand, troubleshooting manuals provide solutions to common problems users may encounter, offering fixes that prevent them from seeking external support.

Learn More: The Unsung Heroes of Safety: User Manuals.

Example: Business Memos

Our article “How to Write a Business Memo” provides detailed information on business memos, along with an example and expert advice on formatting. 

The Purdue University Online Writing Lab offers this downloadable PDF document. It provides another strong example of proper formatting.

Example: Handbooks

A handbook is a comprehensive reference guide designed to provide users with essential information about a specific topic, product, or organization. Unlike user manuals, which focus primarily on operational details, handbooks typically cover broader aspects, offering a more in-depth understanding of policies, procedures, or guidelines. 

Handbooks are used across various industries and settings, such as employee handbooks in companies, safety handbooks in manufacturing, or product handbooks in customer service, to ensure consistency, compliance, and clarity in communication.

Here are examples of policy handbooks.

One common example is an employee handbook, which serves as a critical resource for new hires and existing employees. It outlines company policies, organizational culture, and expectations regarding behavior, attendance, and performance.

Another valuable use of handbooks is seen in safety handbooks within industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. These documents play a crucial role in educating employees about workplace hazards, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.

Example: Business Reports

A business report is a formal document that presents data, analysis, and recommendations to help decision-makers within an organization address specific business challenges or evaluate performance. 

They serve many purposes:

• feasibility report
• situational report
• investigative report 
• compliance report 
• recommendation report 
• incident report 
• yardstick report or scorecard 
• periodic report
• informal reports

Business reports are essential tools for management to assess the current state of operations, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions. 

They’re typically created with Excel, PowerPoint, Word, or proprietary software, so they take many forms! While business reports come in various formats, they must be tailored to the specific needs of the audience, such as executives, stakeholders, or department heads. 

Learn More: How to Write a Business Report with Skill and Ease

Example: Newsletters

A newsletter is a regularly distributed publication, often sent via email, that shares news, updates, and valuable information with a specific audience. Businesses, organizations, and even individual professionals use newsletters as a tool to keep their audience informed and engaged. 

For example, a company might send a monthly customer newsletter to highlight new product launches, special promotions, or upcoming events. These newsletters typically include engaging content such as product tips, success stories, and customer testimonials, which can help build brand loyalty and encourage repeat business. Newsletter is one of the Business Writing Examples. 

Here is an example of our monthly client business writing newsletter.

Internally, employee newsletters are used to keep staff informed about company updates, policy changes, or upcoming training sessions. They also serve as a platform to recognize employee achievements and celebrate company milestones. By regularly sharing this type of information, businesses can foster a sense of community and keep employees aligned with the company’s goals and initiatives. 

Whether for external or internal use, newsletters are an effective way to deliver consistent, audience-focused communication.

Example: Meeting Agendas

A meeting agenda is a structured outline of the topics, discussions, and actions planned for a meeting. It serves as a roadmap to keep the conversation focused and organized, ensuring that all key points are addressed in the allotted time. 

A well-prepared agenda helps participants come to the meeting with a clear understanding of the objectives and allows them to prepare. Meeting agendas are crucial for promoting efficiency, preventing sidetracking, and ensuring that decisions and tasks are properly assigned and tracked.

Example:

Meeting Agenda: Project Launch Discussion

Date: [Insert Date]  

Time: [Insert Time]  

Location: [Insert Location]  

1. Welcome and Introduction (5 minutes)  
2. Project Overview (10 minutes)  
3. Team Roles and Responsibilities (15 minutes)  
4. Timeline and Key Milestones (20 minutes)  
5. Budget Review (10 minutes)  
6. Questions and Next Steps (10 minutes)  

By providing a clear breakdown of the meeting’s structure, this agenda ensures that each topic is discussed within the time limit and participants remain aligned on the meeting’s objectives.

Tips for Effective Business Writing

Effective business writing is all about clarity, professionalism, and understanding your audience. Here are some essential tips to ensure your business documents hit the mark:

1. Know Your Audience: Tailor your tone, style, and content to the reader. Whether you’re writing for a client, colleague, or supervisor, understanding their needs and expectations is crucial for effective communication.
2. Be Clear and Concise: Avoid unnecessary jargon or overly complex sentences. Get to the point quickly and ensure that your message is easy to understand.
3. Use Proper Formatting: Whether it's a business letter, email, or report, formatting is key. Use headings, bullet points, and short paragraphs to improve readability and emphasize key information.
4. Proofread and Edit: Spelling mistakes or grammar errors can damage your professional credibility. Always take the time to proofread your documents carefully or use tools to catch errors before sending them out.
5. Maintain a Professional Tone: Keep your writing professional and respectful, even when dealing with difficult topics. Avoid using informal language or emotional expressions that might be misunderstood.
   

Conclusion

Mastering effective business writing is the key to success in any professional setting. From reports and emails to proposals and presentations, strong writing skills help you communicate ideas clearly and build trust with your audience.

Our Business Writing Courses are designed to provide the practical tools and techniques needed to write confidently and effectively in any business environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is business writing?

Business writing refers to any written communication used in a professional setting. It includes documents like reports, emails, memos, proposals, and business letters, all aimed at conveying information clearly and effectively.

What makes business writing unique is that it is pragmatic—it always aims to help a reader know or do something. Learn more here: What is Business Writing?

Is it important to proofread business documents?

Yes, proofreading is crucial to ensure business documents are free of errors. Mistakes in spelling, grammar, or formatting can make you or your team appear unprofessional and may lead to miscommunication.

How do I structure a business report?

A well-structured business report typically includes a title page, executive summary, table of contents, introduction, body (with headings and subheadings), conclusion, and recommendations. 

Organizing your content logically with clear sections makes it easier for readers—especially busy executive readers— to follow.

How can I improve my business writing skills?

Improving your business writing skills requires practice and feedback. Take one of our business writing courses, subscribe to our Business Writing Blog, read professional writing guides, and make sure to proofread and revise your work regularly. 

You can also seek feedback from colleagues or supervisors to identify areas for improvement.

Related: Guide to Business Writing