PRACTICE IT #3: Evaluate the situation presented below. Applying the recommendations provided in Chapter 11 of Simply Said and anything else you have learned about communication at work, construct emails using complete email format as follows (typed, either on this page or as a separate sheet). (Imagine or assume any details, names, etc. you need to complete the response). Total points: 20 points

Email #1: You are Manager of retail outlet in a chain of clothing stores around the U.S. You are experiencing backlash from complaints launched against the company around the U.S. about discriminatory practices. Employees have filed lawsuits against the company (not against your specific store but generally against the company). This situation is creating bad publicity for the store which you manage, lowering employee morale, and generating ill-will among customers. You want to express your frustration and concern to the Human Resources (H.R.) Manager who is responsible for your geographic area. Your company has a policy that messages of this nature should be transmitted via email.

Draft an email to the H.R. Manager in which you present your position as store manager.

Level of formality and communication protocol: the H.R. Manager is at a higher level in the company than you are and your supervisor, the V.P of Retail, has instructed you to email the H.R. Manager directly with a cc: to him/her.

Tone: professional, concerned, frustrated, seeking guidance and reassurance

Goal of the message: request guidance and reassurance

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Email #2: You are the Human Resource Manager who has received email #1.

Draft an email response in which you, as the H.R. Manager, acknowledge that the company is aware of the repercussions and detail specific measures to resolve the situation.

Level of formality and communication protocol: the H.R. Manager is at a higher level in the company than the store manager and will answer directly to the store manager with a cc: to the V.P of Retail as a courtesy

Tone: professional, empathetic, informative, reassuring

Goal of the message: provide guidance and reassurance as requested