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Delivering Bad News
Communicating Well Under Pressure
Deliver bad news with honesty and empathy.
© iStockphoto/Yuri_Arcurs
Jack's boss has just told him that, due to budget cuts, several people in his team will have to go. Jack manages a happy, successful, team, and he has no idea how to deliver this bad news.
It's possible that you've experienced a similar situation, or will have to face one like it in the future.
By learning how to deliver bad news honestly, openly, and empathetically, you can help to preserve your working relationships, rather than damage them.
In this article, we'll look at the best approaches to use when delivering a difficult message.
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Related Resources
References
Jurkovich, G.J., Pierce, B., Pananen, L. and Rivara, F.P. (2000) 'Giving Bad News: The Family Perspective,' Journal of Trauma-Injury, Infection & Critical Care, Volume 48, Issue 5, May 2000. (Available here.)
Miranda, J. and Brody, R.V. (1992) 'Communicating Bad News,' Western Journal of Medicine, Volume 156, Issue 1, January 1992. (Available here.)
Daley, K. (2009) 'How to Deliver Bad News to a Group,' Harvard Business Review Blog Network, 16 October 2009. [online] Available here. [Accessed July 5, 2012.]
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