Indirect Message Writing: Prewriting Sheet

Prewriting sheet – Indirect Message
Outline
Buffer(Neutral statement related to the purpose of the message without being
negative or revealing the negative information. Avoid negative language
but do not mislead with overly positive information.)
 It was good hearing from you. Thank you for the help given in our
previous event.
 The success achieved in the event was majorly due to your
contribution. You made the event worth a remembrance.
Explanation:(Provide explanation for negative information. Stick to the facts and avoid
editorializing with opinion. Avoid negative wording; use neutral or positive
language.)
 We received your email and shared it with our team members. They
were happy that the link did not end even after the event.
 About the meet and greet session, all the members are so happy
about it. Unfortunately, we are unable to have it advertised on our
platforms due to factors dictated by the college.
Bad News:(Explain the negative information use passive language and a dependent
clause to emphasize and de-personalize the negative message.)
 There is a newly developed policy which deters us from having
external advertisements on our website. The policy was reached
following some unlikable experiences in the past whereby outsiders
have taken advantage of such an opportunity.
 The board of directors warned against the practice citing the past
negative implications.
Alternatives(What alternatives are being presented? Avoid negative wording; use
neutral or positive language.)
 The policy does not completely forbid us from offering a helping hand
since you have been of great help for us. We can allow you the
opportunity to speak on our next meeting if you will be available.
 We also promise to mobilize people on other platforms to join us on
the big event. If you are in a position to print some flyers, we are
more than willing to help supply them.
Good Will