When closing a negative message that has been developed in a direct format, the close of the message should remind the reader why they should continue to do business with your firm in the future.
Indicate whether the statement is true or false.
Ques. 2When writing a direct format bad news message, reasons for the decision or news should always be provided.
Indicate whether the statement is true or false.
Ques. 3Which of the following is true of including an apology in a message?
A) Apologizing is the same as admitting mistake.
B) Apologizing could have significant legal consequences.
C) Apologizing allows the writer to express sympathy without accepting blame.
D) Apologies should always be made when expressing negative news.
E) Apologies should only be used when a long-term business relationship needs to be salvaged.
Ques. 4Which of the following would be the most likely reason to include a detailed explanation of why the news is negative when writing a direct message for bad news?
A) The reasons are confidential.
B) The reasons are complicated.
C) The reasons are not important to the reader.
D) The reader is an important customer.
E) There is no need to worry about the long-term relationship with the audience.
Ques. 5When writing negative news, what should follow the direct opening?
A) A sincere apology
B) The negative news
C) A neutral buffer
D) An explanation of who you are
E) An explanation of why the news is negative
Ques. 6Which of the following would be most appropriate when closing a direct format message with negative news?
A) Offer a sincere apology.
B) Offer contact information in the event the reader wants to further discuss the issue.
C) Provide reasons for the news.
D) Offer an alternative solution.
E) End on a cheerful, positive note that minimizes the impact of the negative news.
Ques. 7Which of the following is the most appropriate apology when writing a negative news message?
A) I am sorry you had a problem with this product, and please know this issue will never happen again.
B) If this issue has created any problems for you, we are sorry.
C) I am sorry to hear of your difficulties with this product.
D) I am sorry to hear of your difficulties, as we sell millions of these products a year and no one else has expressed any concern with them.
E) I am sorry if anyone had difficulties with this product.