Types of Messages

Types of Messages

There are generally seven types of messages which utilize indirect techniques for communication. The first four types are categorized as bad news messages: claims, negative announcements, refusal requests, and adjustment refusals. The last three types are categorized as persuasive messages: persuasive requests, sales messages, and proposals. Before we proceed, let us first examine their goals or developmental strategies. Negative announcement strategy stresses what kind of buffer to employ, or what kind of information one needs to give in order to leave the reader satisfied or at least relaxed. Refusal request strategy focuses on the fairness or reasonableness of the explanation given. The goal of claims message is to persuade the addressee that the compensation or remuneration received is justified or necessary. Adjustment refusal strategy, on the other hand, focuses on asserting the legitimacy of prescribed standards while sustaining positive relationship with either the reader or the recipient. Persuasive requests are usually employed to convince readers to adopt certain actions, or participate in activities deemed important by the donor. Sales messages, on the other hand, focus on the ethical dimension of the communication process. Finally, proposals stress how information is collected, analyzed, and presented to stakeholders.

The general indirect techniques used in bad news messages follow a five part plan. Begin by using a buffer. Use neutral non controversial words that do not increase the audience hopes. Then, prepare the audience for the bad news slightly explaining the situation. Next, be sure the present the message in a positive light and offer some form of a solution. Finally, all bad news messages should end on a positive note.

What are examples of bad news messages? When company president announces that the board of directors has decided to lay off more than a third of all regular employees to save the company from...