Asked by Sarah Albertson on Jun 05, 2024
Verified
Discuss questions that should be thought through when determining if negative information should be shared in an indirect or direct format.
Indirect Format
A communication approach where the main point or conclusion is presented after the supporting information or arguments.
Direct Format
A straightforward and clear way of presenting information or instructions without unnecessary details or embellishments.
Negative Information
Information that may be perceived as unfavorable or detrimental to the receiver's interests.
- Appreciate the significance of electing a direct or indirect means for communicating negative news, in accordance with the given context and the intended listeners.
- Familiarize oneself with the targets of negative communication and apply this knowledge to devise effective messages.
Verified Answer
KW
Kelsi WhiteJun 06, 2024
Final Answer :
To help decide which approach to take in a particular situation,ask yourself the following questions:
• Do you need to get the reader's attention immediately? If the situation is an emergency or if someone has ignored repeated messages,the direct approach can help you get attention quickly.
• Does the recipient prefer a direct style of communication? Some recipients prefer the direct approach no matter what,so if you know this,go with direct.
• How important is this news to the reader? For minor or routine scenarios,the direct approach is nearly always best.However,if the reader has an emotional investment in the situation or the consequences to the reader are considerable,the indirect approach is often better,particularly if the bad news is unexpected.
• Will the bad news come as a shock? The direct approach is fine for many business situations in which people understand the possibility of receiving bad news.However,if the bad news might come as a shock to readers,use the indirect approach to help them prepare for it.
• Do you need to get the reader's attention immediately? If the situation is an emergency or if someone has ignored repeated messages,the direct approach can help you get attention quickly.
• Does the recipient prefer a direct style of communication? Some recipients prefer the direct approach no matter what,so if you know this,go with direct.
• How important is this news to the reader? For minor or routine scenarios,the direct approach is nearly always best.However,if the reader has an emotional investment in the situation or the consequences to the reader are considerable,the indirect approach is often better,particularly if the bad news is unexpected.
• Will the bad news come as a shock? The direct approach is fine for many business situations in which people understand the possibility of receiving bad news.However,if the bad news might come as a shock to readers,use the indirect approach to help them prepare for it.
Learning Objectives
- Appreciate the significance of electing a direct or indirect means for communicating negative news, in accordance with the given context and the intended listeners.
- Familiarize oneself with the targets of negative communication and apply this knowledge to devise effective messages.