Tips: Faux Pas Case

Here are a few general comments about the Faux Pas Case that you all should pay attention to:

• The introduction of any memo needs to set the context for the memo, state the purpose, and preview the memo, especially the internal document for the case project. Similarly, any conclusion you write needs to summarize, offer to answer any questions the reader might have, and provide an open avenue for communication.

• The first part of the memo should describe the situation so that everyone understands the problem in the same way. In other words, the background section is important in that it establishes the situation so that there are no misunderstandings and so all of the details are out in the open.

• The rest of the memo needs to outline possible solutions and then make an argument for the best solution. Each of the options needs to be discussed in detail in terms of both strengths and weaknesses. You need to convince your supervisors that you have carefully considered all possible options before selecting the one that you feel is the most appropriate. You should include a discussion of your plan to revise Nestor’s letter and get him on board. Remember, the key to this memo is that you SHOW your boss that you have thought about this problem in great detail and that you have made an INFORMED decision.

• The key to revising Nestor’s letter is to write something that will solve the existing problem without creating new problems for the parties involved.