Letterheads are pre-printed at the top of the letter, serving as a heading that contains the logo, business name, and contact information. Letterhead papers are a sign of formality and sophistication, which is why corporations and enterprises have letterhead writing pads. They are used for invoicing, meeting minutes, tenders, and legal notices, especially for interdepartmental announcements. Nowadays, people use letterheads for personal usage as well.
What is a company letterhead?
Company letterheads are similar to regular letterheads, featuring a company logo, name, and contact details. Sometimes, companies also add a catchy slogan or motto with their logo to their letterheads. They are utilised for official business, especially communication between two companies or with customers. Often, some companies print the address on the lower section of the letterhead paper. A typical example is the writing pads used by pharmaceutical companies.
Why are letterheads used in businesses?
Letterheads convey seriousness and professionalism, which can help convince investors to invest in a specific brand. They are used for brand representation and are a key component of brand identity, just as necessary as the brand itself. Businesses also use them as a marketing strategy. Professionally designed letterheads convey a positive impression to potential customers and investors, showcasing credibility and stability. Letterheads vary from company to company. A well-designed letterhead makes a company stand out.
Letterhead as an advertising tool
Company Letterheads are an effective advertising tool; whenever a company corresponds with other entities or individuals, they see the company logo, name, and contact information, allowing them to explore the company’s official website further.
When a company invests wisely in letterheads, it is engaging in free marketing; wherever the letter goes, the company’s exposure increases, as well as its potential to acquire new clientele.
Official letterheads
Official letterhead is similar to company letterhead; it should include the organisation’s or institution’s name, a well-crafted logo, and contact details. They serve the same purpose as correspondence, legal statements, and notifications, among others.
Kinds of Letterheads
Letterheads are categorised into four kinds
- Standard
- Specialized
- Custom
- Executive
Standard Letterhead:
It is typically used by an enterprise or corporation for administrative purposes, targeting a general audience to disseminate information widely. Such letterheads are found on invoices and notifications. These letterheads generally have the company name and address.
Specialised Letterheads:
Much like standardised letterheads, these are issued by departments of a company or firm, such as the accounting department. A target audience is also a specific group of employees within an organisation; for example, the accounting department issuing a notification to the company’s auditors. Such letterheads will have the company name, address, logo, and specialty department (issuing department).
Custom Letterhead:
Like its name, custom letterheads are customized and issued by one person; the document is concise and precise. They are most commonly used in internal communications within an entity, such as memos. They can also be issued for external communication, especially in the case of outsourcing – letters are sent to independent service providers. Custom letterheads typically feature a company name, logo, specific area, and the sender’s name.
Executive Letterhead:
Executive letterhead is intended for upper management, like custom letterhead, it is also issued from one person, usually from executive management, to one person (from middle management). These letterheads are found in termination letters and offer letters. These letterheads feature the sender’s name and job title, along with the logo and company name.
Various letterhead formats
Generally, letterheads have 3 Formats
- Printed on the top-left corner
- Printed on the top-right corner
- Printed on the top middle section