Direct Strategy in Delivering Negative Messages

When should a direct strategy be used in delivering a negative message?

Select all the correct answers.

a) The recipient favors straightforwardness.

b) The sender needs to show firmness.

c) The bad news affects the receiver personally.

d) The relationship with the recipient might be affected.

e) The recipient is likely to become upset.

Answer:

The correct answers are a) The recipient favors straightforwardness and b) The sender needs to show firmness.

A direct strategy for delivering a negative message is often used in business communications. The two situations out of the options provided that would require a direct strategy include one where the recipient favors straightforwardness and the second where the sender needs to show firmness. In these scenarios, the sender would be upfront and direct with the bad news, with the intention of being clear and leaving no room for misunderstandings or false hopes.

The relationship might be affected regardless of the message delivery strategy. However, when a person prefers a direct approach, not using it could potentially harm the relationship more. Similarly, showing firmness is often key in professional settings where concessions cannot be made.