For this week’s assignment, you have the task of writing both good news and bad news. When writing good news, remember to use the direct approach; however, when writing the bad news, use indirect approach. A single upload is fine, as long as each memo starts on a new page. You are welcomed to use the attached template, or you may use a different template. After your assignment is uploaded, please click on “View Feedback” to verify that the formatting was not altered. If necessary, please correct and resubmit. Similarity scores must be 25% or less. If similarity score exceeds 25%, revise and resubmit by the due date. Remember to adhere to formatting guidelines, including margins and spacing (please refer to memo layout sample).
Guidelines:
- Use Times Roman Numeral, Courier New, or Arial.
- Left justify memo and use 1-inch margin.
- Use correct headings (You may use caps, bold font, and double-space):
- Date: Write out month completely
- To: Reader’s names and job titles
- From: Your name and job title
- Subject: Be specific and concise
- Do not use salutation.
- Memo must be single-spaced (except for headings); leave a space between each paragraph.
- Do not indent paragraphs.
- No need to use complimentary close or signature block.
- Reference your sources
- Bullets and Headings (PDF)
Scenario (Good News)
It’s your pleasure to announce that your sales team is selected to represent your organization in China at an international conference. Write a memo to the sales team explaining important business protocols in China, for example how should you greet another business associate? How should you present and receive business cards? Include any other information that business professionals should know when visiting a high-context culture.
Scenario (Bad News)
Due to Covid-19, ABZ Corporation will have to lay-off or furlough some employees. Write a memo to the employees explaining this scenario. Use the indirect approach.
MEMORANDUM
TO: Reader’s Names and Job Title
FROM: Your Name and Job Title
DATE: Write Out Month Completely
SUBJECT: Be Specific and Concise
Remember that memos do not begin with greetings or salutations. Use the direct approach, and begin with the good news. State reason for correspondence.
Provide relevant details that led to the good news. If creating a list, use bullets and parallel structure to improve readability.
In the final paragraph, end with courteous close. Indicate how you may be contacted if there are any questions.
Margins should be one-inch all around. Document should be single-spaced, except for the headings, which may be double-spaced. Use one space to separate each paragraph, as seen in this example. At least three paragraphs are required, and each paragraph should be adequately supported yet concise. Eliminate redundant sentences, and remember to proof read.
MEMORANDUM
TO: Reader’s Names and Job Title
FROM: Your Name and Job Title
DATE: Write Out Month Completely
SUBJECT: Be Specific and Concise
Remember that memos do not begin with greetings or salutations. Use the indirect approach when announcing the negative news. This means that you will not open with the bad news; instead, you will use a buffer statement.
Provide background context that will help your readers to understand the reason for the bad news. Be mindful of the tone—be clear, but also show concern.
Avoid ending with negative impressions. Try to end with a message of hope and optimism. Conclude the memo by indicating how you may be contacted if there are any questions.
Margins should be one-inch all around. Document should be single-spaced, except for the headings, which may be double-spaced. Use one space to separate each paragraph, as seen in this example. At least three paragraphs are required, and each paragraph should be adequately supported yet concise. Eliminate redundant sentences, and remember to proof read.