Page 64 - Today’s Business Communication; A How-to Guide for the Modern Professional

WhY MUST I REMEMBER ThAT COMMUNICATION 53

Writing a Message of Condolence

As we told you earlier, we both keep stacks of plain, beige-colored fold-over
cards and matching envelopes in our desks. These cards are perfect for send-
ing messages of condolence to individuals who have experienced the death
of a loved one. We don’t recommend pre printed condolence cards from,
for example Hallmark, for one reason: These are beautiful, but impersonal.
Rather, we encourage you to write from the heart. Make your condo-
lences as personal as you appropriately can to demonstrate your empathy.
People are often at their worst when grieving, and communicating with
the bereaved can be challenging. Further, we don’t always know about the
religious or spiritual beliefs of individuals who have experienced the death
of someone close to them; consequently, navigating these waters can be a
trial. You may prefer to refer to someone’s death in a flowery, euphemistic
way such as having “passed,” or having “expired.” We prefer the precision
of the words “death” and “died.” After all, you can call a dog a “cat,” but
it makes the dog no more of a feline and no less of a canine.
Below, you’ll find a sample message of condolence that is appropriate
for business. It is nonreligious and absent of euphemism.

Sample Message of Condolence

Dear Sheree,
We were sorry to learn about the death of your father, James. Though
we didn’t have the pleasure of knowing him, we believe he must
have been a fine man to have brought up such a wonderful person as
you are. We know that the process of grieving takes time, and while
others’ lives move forward the bereaved sometimes can feel as if they
are stuck, standing still. Please know that we care, and if you start
feeling stuck, and need someone to listen, you can count on us.
Warm regards,
Jason Snyder and Robert Forbus
Zimpal Group, LLC

Writing a Complaint Message

Face it: things in the workplace don’t always go according to plan. When
that situation arises, you can expect complaints from customers or clients.