Explain how a counterproposal may be used to preserve a positive ...

[vinney12]

Explain how a counterproposal may be used to preserve a positive relationship when denying a request or when delivering bad news.

Question 2

List and explain three stylistic aspects of writing a bad-news statement.

[spencer.martell]

Answer to Question 1

By proposing an alternative to the action requested, the communicator denies the request while ensuring that the relationship will not suffer as a result. The counterproposal is an expression of goodwill, a willingness to help the receiver. In a letter denying credit, for instance, a counterproposal can let the customer know that you still value his or her business and that, as soon as credit history is established or improved, the customer may reapply for credit.

Answer to Question 2

 Emphasize the positive and de-emphasize the negative. Use the inductive approach for bad news messages; subordinate the negative aspect of the message and emphasize the positive aspect.
 Use positive language to accentuate the positive and de-emphasize the negative. Carefully select words that do not offend or blame to make the tone of the message more positive.
 Imply the refusal when the receiver can understand the message without a definite statement of the bad news. Rather than stating a blunt refusal, use words that imply the refusal as long as the message of the refusal remains clear to the recipient.