Read the three sample memos from "Ann's Three Responses" 

Answer the following questions:

• What issues were on Ann's mind?
• What were her priorities?
• What were her communication goals?
• How did she conceive of her purpose and her audience?
• How effective or limited was her conception of the situation?
• If you were in Ann's position, which letter would you write? If you don't like any of the three examples, what would you write?
• What are the ethical issues in this case?
• Who are the stakeholders who will be affected by Carl's announcement?
• As it stands, will the announcement hurt anyone?
• Does gender play a role in the Trustworthy situation?
• Do you think Ann was too aggressive about expressing her opinions?
• Can you think of specific examples of different or other ways companies have handled major moves or dislocations?

   

Ann's Three Responses Assignment 1 - Memorandum Sample A: Memo to Carl from Ann Memorandum Date: April 10, 0000 To: Carl Peters From: Ann Davidson Subject: Newsletter Article Carl, I want to apologize for my outburst yesterday. However, I do believe that the news you drafted yesterday will have negative consequences. The employees are aware that the prospect of relocating exists as the stronger possibility. To suggest that both options have equal weight could seem to be misleading to them. I believe that we can be honest and still not jeopardize our negotiations. We need to be clear that we have two options and now are in the process of negotiating our preferred option. And we can state that, at present, we are not in the position to disclose any more information in this regard. I do understand Carl that you are in the difficult position of trying to balance staff needs and shareholder interests. Please let me know when we can inform our employees further.