Karen, a manager, has to fire an employee who has consistently performed poorly. She wants the situation to be handled as delicately as possible, without hurting the employee's sentiments and self-confidence. Which of the following modes of communication should she use?
A) Text message
B) E-mail
C) Face-to-face discussion
D) Instant message
E) Memo

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

E-mail is most appropriate for routine messages that do not require the exchange of large quantities of complex information. It is less suitable for confidential information, resolving conflicts, or negotiating. Employees have reported being laid off via e-mail and even text messages. These more impersonal forms of communication can hurt feelings, and an upset employee can easily forward messages, which often has a snowball effect that can embarrass everyone involved.

Karen, a Manager, Has to Fire an Employee Who Has