Question Details

Your subordinate, Mark Smith has not really delivered. Your boss
Helen really does not like him and he has given her some shoddy work. Otherwise
Mark has some good qualities. He is punctual, considerate, works well with
others, appears ethical and has sound judgment. He is a creative thinker though
and this job (supply requisitioning) requires a rational, logical, detail
oriented worker—not Mark's strength. Your boss has you fire him, which goes
well. In fact, Mark says he was not happy anyway and knew his skills were in a
different area. He has an interview with a Marketing firm to write advertising
copy and would like you to personally provide a reference letter. You clear
this with your boss who says it is fine as long as you sign it personally and
not as a representative of the firm; but your boss says you must be honest
about Mark's history with the firm, and his strengths and weaknesses. Write a
letter for Mark that will possibly help him get the new job, while still
meeting your commitment to your boss. Use any appropriate business letter
format.

Create a tip sheet (15 - 20 tips) outlining techniques useful in
sending the following types of written messages: persuasive, goodwill, negative
or bad news, good news, "you-centered," and sales oriented.