Which of the following is an example of a routine message?
A. The company is announcing a change in the employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement plan.
B. The company is experiencing financial problems and is suspending employer contributions to the retirement plan.
C. Latisha is requesting verification of her salary from Joshua, so she can purchase a house.
D. The company is announcing an impending merger, which may result in the loss of jobs.
E. Steven Lucas, the head of the department, informs one of the staff, Ray, that because of his expertise in computer software, Ray is being transferred to another division within the company.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is A. The company is announcing a change in the employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement plan.
Explanation:
A routine message refers to communication that conveys regular, everyday business information and is often intended to be straightforward, factual, and informational. These messages are usually expected and are delivered in a predictable manner, often as part of normal operations. They typically involve information that doesn’t require a significant emotional response or create a lot of surprise.
Let’s break down each option:
- A. The company is announcing a change in the employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement plan.
This is a routine message because it communicates a standard update to employees regarding a benefit they may be accustomed to. It is a regular business announcement about a policy change, and such communications are typically part of ongoing operations in a company. These types of messages are typically brief, direct, and factual. - B. The company is experiencing financial problems and is suspending employer contributions to the retirement plan.
This is not a routine message. It communicates a problem (financial difficulties) and a significant change to an employee benefit. This type of message might evoke a response from employees, such as concern or anger, and therefore requires more careful handling and may need additional explanation, which sets it apart from routine communication. - C. Latisha is requesting verification of her salary from Joshua, so she can purchase a house.
This is a request for information, not a routine message. Although it is a simple request, it involves specific, individualized communication between two people and is not a general message intended for a larger audience, making it different from a routine message. - D. The company is announcing an impending merger, which may result in the loss of jobs.
This is not a routine message. It involves a major company change that could have serious implications for employees, particularly regarding job security. It likely needs careful consideration, detailed information, and an appropriate tone, as it could cause anxiety or stress. - E. Steven Lucas, the head of the department, informs one of the staff, Ray, that because of his expertise in computer software, Ray is being transferred to another division within the company.
This is a personal message specific to an individual employee. While it could be part of routine personnel updates, it is a direct communication about a personnel move and is tailored to a specific employee, not a general announcement.
Therefore, Option A best exemplifies a routine message due to its nature as a regular, informative update about a policy change.