Positive Message Outline

The basic organizational outline for a positive message uses the blocks introduced above in that same order: news, reasons, and goodwill and action. Remember, this is the outline for writing the entire message (the second step in the writing process). The blocks are the labels of the outline section where the writer collects notes and thoughts on that part or paragraph. With these notes, the writer can write the entire message without stopping to look for detail.

In this example of a positive message, assume the sender is confirming the receipt of a duplicate shipment and has agreed to provide credit.

Organization Block	Purpose	Notes for the Message
News	With a positively inclined receiver, the main idea is in the first paragraph, first sentence. The reader wants to know some and is receptive, so the writer should just say it:	credit due 3/31
Reasons	This is the body of the message that contains the detail supporting the news	“The Leadership Experience” duplicate received. Invoice attached. Credit processed against acct 234-2345
Goodwill and Action	Acknowledge and effort or relationship with the receiver. Confirm any commitments.	She sent clear detail. Should see on April statement.