Lackawanna ENG115 2021 April Module 3 Discussion (dq1+dq2) Latest

ENG115 Business Communications

Module 3 Discussion

DQ1 Bearer of Bad News

Discussion Introduction

Communication comes most easily when it is a pleasant, when it is a topic in which we have interest or for which we have passion, when it is content we know our audience will enjoy, or when it serves a positive purpose. However, part of mastering communication skills is communicating effectively when news is not the kind we want to deliver.

Bad news is a fact of life. It is truly not a matter of if we will have to deliver it, but when. Breaking bad news badly, though, can make a tough situation worse; and the old adage about blaming the messenger, unfortunately, does hold true.

There is a strategy for softening the blow, though. After all, bad news can often be spun in a constructive way that can actually leave an audience feeling almost grateful for the message thanks to your expertise in communicating it. The introduction and lesson resources explored some strategies for making this happen. Review and consider those before joining in to this discussion.

Discussion Question

Think of the last time you gave and received bad news. What were the best and worst parts of each delivery?

 Being specific by using examples, explain how each delivery could have been better. Consider yourself as well as the person who was the bearer of bad news to you.

DQ2 Vital Vocabulary

Discussion Introduction

Words are the vehicles of our expression. Without them, we would literally be speechless. And while – as we have explored in earlier Modules – it is certainly possible to communicate effectively without words, such as through elements like gesture – it is words, especially the right word, that enables us to share what we know and think in ways that move our audience.

Regardless of whether or message is bad news, good news, or neutral, attention to word choice is essential. It is critical, for instance, to understand denotation and connotation to choose words well. Denotation is the dictionary definition of a word. You can remember it because denotation and dictionary both begin with the letter “d.” Connotation is our connection to a word. You can remember it because connotation and connection both begin with the letter “c.” Denotation conveys straightforward logic. Connotation evokes multilayered emotion.

One example of deliberate word choice can be found in restaurant menus. Even though we know what a cheeseburger tastes like, reading about a quarter pound of juicy char-grilled beef smothered in melted cheese and piled with crispy seared onions on a soft, fresh baked bun and served with a side of crispy, salty, golden fries is nearly enough to put a vegetarian in the mood!

The best words paint a mental picture. Our word choice should be determined on the picture we want to paint. Consider what you want your audience to know – and how you want them to feel. If you choose the right words, even bad news can seem good. 

Discussion Question

Find an example of at least one sentence – online, in print, in music, etc. – that uses words extremely effectively. Reply with your sentence and your explanation of why and how the words are used well. Be sure to address both connotation and denotation.

 List at least one specific everyday step (i.e. one so easy and natural you will actually do it) to enhance your vocabulary, choose words more wisely, and communicate more effectively.