Question

Select all that apply
To soften the blow of bad news in written communications. you could use which of the following?
(Choose every correct answer.)
1. an accusatory claim
2. a neutral subject line for the message
3. a letterhead with hearts on it
4. a buffer statement

Answer 1

Correct answers: 2 and 4.

- 2 (neutral subject line) — yes; it prevents alarming the reader and sets an appropriate tone.
- 4 (buffer statement) — yes; a neutral, positive opening eases the reader into the bad news.

1 (accusatory claim) and 3 (hearts on the letterhead) would be inappropriate and likely make the message worse.