What should be done when explaining and justifying the routine request in the body of the message?

  • Apply the three-step process to routine and positive messages.
    • Step 1: Planning a routine or positive message.
      • Analyze the situation, gather information, selectt he right medium for the messages
    • Step 2: Writing a routine or positive message
      • Open by stating the request or main idea.
      • Give necessary details in the body.
      • Close with a cordial request for specific action.
    • Step 3: Completing a routine or positive message
      • Revise, produce, proofread, and distribute it.
  • Outline an effective strategy for writing routine requests.
    • Stating your requests up front
      • pay attention to tone, assume you audience will comply, be specific
    • Explaining and justifying you request
      • ask the most important questions first
      • ask only relevant questions
      • deal with onlyone topic per question.
  • Explain how to ask for specific action in a courteous manner.
    • Requesting specific action in a courteous close
      • Close request messages with
        • A request for some specific action
        • information about how you can be reached
        • An expression of appreciation
  • Describe a strategy for writing routine replies and positive messages.
    • An opening, a body, and a close
      • Place your main idea in the body, use the body to explain all relevant details, and close cordially
      • Use the direct approach for positive messages
      • Prepare your audience for the detail that follows by beginning your positive message with the main idea or good news.
      • Look for ways to present negative information in a positive context.
      • Make sure audience members understand what to do next and how that action will benefit them.
  • Discuss the importance of knowing who is responsible when granting claims and requests for adjustment.
    • Acknowledge receipt of the customer's claim or complaint
    • Take (or assign) personal responsibility for setting matters straight
    • Sympathize with the customer's inconvenience or frustration
    • Explain precisely how you have resolved or plan to resolve the situation
    • Take steps to repair the relationship
    • Follow up to verify that your response was correct
    • If you grant a claim when the customer is at fault, look for diplomatic ways to discourage the errant behavior in the future
  • Describe the importance of goodwill messages, and explain how to make them effective.
    • Goodwill is the positive feeling that encourages people to maintain a business relationship.
    • Make sure comments are sincere and honest.
    • Taking note of significant events in someone's personal life helps cement a business relationship.
    • Offering Condolences
      • Keep reminiscences brief
      • Write in your own words
      • Be tactful