Revise the following messages so that they are more direct and concise.

1. You’re applying for a job as a website designer at a digital marketing agency. In a previous job at another agency, you excelled at website design but you were also asked to “pitch” the agency’s services to potential clients. Unfortunately, you did not excel at this aspect of the job, and you were let go when the agency had to lay off 10 percent of its staff. The new opportunity will not require you to pitch new clients. How should you approach your former boss for a recommendation that focuses on your web design skills?

2. The latest issue of a local business newspaper names 10 area executives who have exhibited excellent leadership skills in the past year. You are currently searching for a job, and a friend suggests that you write each executive a congratulatory letter and mention in passing that you are looking for new career opportunities and would appreciate the opportunity for an interview. Is this a smart strategy? Why or why not?

3. Your company made a mistake that cost an important business customer a new client; you know it, and your customer knows it. Do you apologize, or do you refer to the incident in a positive light without admitting any responsibility? Briefly explain.

4. You’ve been asked to write a letter of recommendation for an employee who worked for you some years ago. You recall that the employee did an admirable job, but you can’t remember any specific information at this point. How should you handle the situation?