Get to the Point

I really believe that in most cases the direct approach, in writing and speech, works best. People are very strapped for time in this day and age. There is also so much information to sipher through, that when writing or speaking in a business situation if the point of the memo is not clear people may continue reading or listening but start thinking about other topics; hence not giving your item there full attention. Three main areas when the direct approach should be used are (1) asking a question, (2) having a normal request, and (3) a positive or yes answer.

There are a few situations that an indirect approach may be appropiate. One is when speaking to some one in authority. It would appear rude to come right out and shoot a supervisors idea down. Another time to use the indirect approach is for any negative answer, some kind words are always nice lessen the blow.