1. Buffer or Not?

A buffer is a short but neutral statement that is sometimes used to prepare the reader for the bad news that is coming. Discuss the need for buffers in the following situations:

a. A client visited your office last month to inquire about a mortgage. At that time you told her that you were optimistic about being able to approve the paperwork once it was submitted. Since then market conditions have changed dramatically and your requirements have become much stricter. Do you use a buffer when informing her that you cannot approve her request?

b. You need to send an email message to a customer telling him that the book he ordered is temporarily out of stock and delivery will be delayed for two weeks. Do you use a buffer?

c. You need to send a customer a letter explaining why you are refusing to repair an electric razor that is still under warranty but had been plugged into a 240-volt outlet, which voided the warranty.

Do you use a buffer?

d. You need to send a rejection letter to three of the four candidates who made it through the second round of interviews for a new position in your business. Do you use a buffer?