Can someone tell me if this is a correct answer?
Question: What kinds of unwanted reactions might you get from readers of your messages? What steps would you take to ensure that the purpose of your message (whether informative,negative,or persuasive)is conveyed to your readers?
My answer:
For informative and positive messages the most common unwanted reaction by a reader would be the perception that I am being sarcastic in my response to them. This can rectified by being very clear in both the wording and tone to make sure it does not give the impression of sarcasm. Furthermore, the tendency seems to be that short answers are more frequently perceived as sarcastic, so adding a little more detail, and increasing the length slightly, can resolve this issue.
For negative messages the most common unwanted reaction would be hurt feelings. This can typically be mitigated by not attacking the person, and instead focusing on just the specific issue. Secondly, the tone should be more level instead of openly hostile. Finally, minimize, or better do not use, all capital letters, bold, or colored type to emphasize irritation or displeasure.
For a persuasive message the most common unwanted reaction would be the appearance that you are attacking anyone who does not agree with you. This can be minimized through the use of appropriate tone throughout the message. Secondly, minimizing the amount of rhetoric and sticking with logical, well reasoned, arguments will also minimize this issue. Finally, avoid the use of citing people individually within the message, when possible, as examples.
You need to establish a reputation for honesty and directness, that lets communications flow much more easily. Then, sarcasm is not perceived. On the negative messages, you have to watch out for the personality that wants to shoot the messenger. These weak people do exist, even in high places. Remember how President Nixon fired his staff at the Saturday Night Massacre?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturday_Night_Massacre
In addition to the excellent information posted by Bob Pursley, keep this in mind: anticipating the responses is more important than sending the message.
=)
Discuss how you would approach creating a negative message for a superior (such as a manager at work or an instructor) versus creating a message for a colleague, subordinate, or fellow student?
Question: What kinds of unwanted reactions might you get from readers of your messages? What steps would you take to ensure that the purpose of your message (whether informative,negative,or persuasive)is conveyed to your readers?
Discuss how you would approach creating a negative message for a superior (such as a manager at work or an instructor) versus creating a message for a colleague, subordinate, or fellow student.
Discuss how you would approach creating a negative message for a superior versus creating a message for a colleague, subordinate, or fellow student?
1 answer
1 answer