Author Question: Which of the following is least effective in an opening buffer? A) A sincere apology B) ... (Read 137 times)

Bernana · **on:** Jun 23, 2018

Which of the following is least effective in an opening buffer?

A) A sincere apology
B) Assurance for the reader that they have your attention
C) An understanding of the reader's needs
D) An introduction to the general subject matter
E) Establishing common ground with the reader

Question 2

Why would an indirect approach be better to use when the audience will be disappointed with the news?

A) An indirect approach is better at obscuring the bad news.
B) An indirect approach eases the blow of the news and helps the reader accept the news.
C) An indirect approach is more ethical than a direct approach for dealing with bad news.
D) An indirect approach is better at limiting responsibility on the part of the organization.
E) An indirect approach allows the opportunity for an apology in the body of the message.

chevyboi1976 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: A
Explanation: A) Messages using the indirect approach open with a buffer, a neutral, noncontroversial statement that is closely related to the point of the message but doesn't convey the bad news. Depending on the circumstances, a good buffer can express your appreciation for being considered, assure the reader of your attention to the request, indicate your understanding of the reader's needs, introduce the general subject matter, or simply establish common ground with your readers.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: B
Explanation: B) The indirect approach helps readers prepare for the bad news by outlining the reasons for the situation before presenting the bad news itself. However, the indirect approach is not meant to obscure bad news, delay it, or limit your responsibility. The purpose of this approach is to ease the blow and help readers accept the news. When done poorly, the indirect approach can be disrespectful and even unethical.