COMM Indirect / Bad News Assignment

This weeks 5% assignment will utilize the indirect (bad news) letter pattern. You must remember to follow the indirect pattern found (buffer-reasons-bad news-closing). Remember to have appropriate letter format for headings and closing salutations. Use of passive voice, subordinating phrases, and professional tone are important. One page is the maximum. Use business letter format. This is due in the submission folder by October 11 at 11:30 pm EST.

Bad News Practice Scenarios: (Choose only ONE)

1: Your accounting firm has a very high-profile client who always files taxes with you. There was a mistake on the returns and the client now has to pay more taxes than expected.

2: There have been several student complaints about a teacher at your school. You are the supervisor and must discuss these issues with the teacher. You may be creative with the details of the complaint and how you wish to proceed.

3: One of your employees has been chronically late for work and has significantly decreased productivity. Send a message to him/her to discuss this issue. You may be creative with the details and how you would like to proceed.

4: You are unable to offer a raise to an employee that he/she has requested. Send a message to him/her to discuss this issue. You may be creative with the details and how you would like to proceed.

• BUFFER:

Best news

Compliment

Appreciation

Agreement

Facts

Understanding

• REASONS:

Cautious explanation

Reader or other benefits

Company policy explanation

Positive words

Evidence that matter was considered

fairly and seriously

• BAD NEWS:

Embedded placement

Passive voice

Implied refusal

Compromise

Alternative

• CLOSING

Forward look

Information about alternative

Good wishes

Freebies

Resale

Sales Promotion