Author Question: When conveying a bad-news message, how might the use of the word you be interpreted? What will be ... (Read 53 times)

student77

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 567
When conveying a bad-news message, how might the use of the word you be interpreted?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Discuss whether or not an apology should be part of a bad-news message.
 
  What will be an ideal response?



Joy Chen

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 354
Answer to Question 1

Answer: If you use the word you too much in a bad-news message, the audience might feel blamed rather than respected. To prevent this, avoid using language that is accusatory or blaming. Since your audience will be more open to accepting the bad news if you treat them politely and respectfully, it is important to strive for this tone. The tone and style of the message should help the audience feel good about you, the situation, and themselves. Another way to achieve this may be to use the passive voice. In passive voice sentences, the subject does not perform the action of the verb. Using the passive voice avoids placing the blame on the audience.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: If you are responsible for the problem, delay, or bad news that you are communicating, it is likely a good idea to include an apology. A sincere apology acknowledging the implications of the bad news for your client may help you project a positive image, maintain goodwill, and hopefully preserve the relationship. By contrast, an insincere apology can alienate your audience. Some think an apology is dangerous because it could imply legal liability, but research shows that a well-timed, strategically worded apology can improve a company's image, facilitate forgiveness, and even decrease damages if the case goes to court. If you apologize for something that is not your fault you run the risk of giving your audience the impression that you are in fact responsible. On the other hand, dodging responsibility when it is appropriate can anger the customer and damage your business. There is no right or wrong answer. Each situation must be considered and evaluated to determine whether or not to include an apology.



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question
 

Did you know?

A good example of polar molecules can be understood when trying to make a cake. If water and oil are required, they will not mix together. If you put them into a measuring cup, the oil will rise to the top while the water remains on the bottom.

Did you know?

There are immediate benefits of chiropractic adjustments that are visible via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It shows that spinal manipulation therapy is effective in decreasing pain and increasing the gaps between the vertebrae, reducing pressure that leads to pain.

Did you know?

In Eastern Europe and Russia, interferon is administered intranasally in varied doses for the common cold and influenza. It is claimed that this treatment can lower the risk of infection by as much as 60–70%.

Did you know?

Always store hazardous household chemicals in their original containers out of reach of children. These include bleach, paint, strippers and products containing turpentine, garden chemicals, oven cleaners, fondue fuels, nail polish, and nail polish remover.

Did you know?

Many people have small pouches in their colons that bulge outward through weak spots. Each pouch is called a diverticulum. About 10% of Americans older than age 40 years have diverticulosis, which, when the pouches become infected or inflamed, is called diverticulitis. The main cause of diverticular disease is a low-fiber diet.

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library