Spend some time editing the performance review letter presented in Case 7.2. When done, ask someone who has not read the case to read your edited letter and describe the personnel issue. If your invited third person draws the conclusion you would want them to draw, then you have drafted an effective letter. However, if your invited person describes a scenario that is different from what you would want, review your letter again, and determine how it might be revised to achieve thirdperson clarity.

It’s Your Turn