Real-Life Communication -- Solution
Here's what your letter could say:
Dear Dr. Smith,
I
work for the patent office. A mutual friend of ours, Joe Blow, suggested that
I get in touch with you. I hope my small request for assistance is not too
big an intrusion on your busy schedule.
Before I go any further, allow
me to give you a bit of a history of my work here at the patent office. I
occasionally review patent applications for genetically altered grain crops.
Although my doctorate is in this field, my area of expertise is with tubers,
primarily potatoes.
I feel obliged both personally and professionally
to have as complete a background in all aspects of this growing industry as
possible. To that end, I pursue a lot of general research in the field. I
want to stay up to date so I can be prepared, should more complex
applications cross my desk.
Since my focus is pretty narrow, I need
to look for new sources of data. I would like to meet with you to discuss
the following:
- The mechanics of genetically engineered plants of the grass and feed crop
variety, particularly barley
- Finding sources of up-to-date studies
- Sharing the names of some people who you believe to be at the forefront
of this technology
I know this a lot to ask. I would be happy to alter my schedule to
fit your commitments if this is necessary. You come highly recommended and
I know I would value any help you can offer.
I look forward to hearing
from you soon.