Reference no: EM133320331

Read Chapter 12

Essentials of Business Communication

1. Why should even practiced speakers plan their presentations when addressing a business audience instead of just "winging it?"

2. Communication expert Dianna Booher claims that enthusiasm is infectious and "boredom is contagious." What does this mean for you as a presenter? How can you avoid being a boring speaker?

3. Why do many communication consultants encourage businesspeople to move beyond bullet points? What do they recommend instead and why?

4. How can vou prevent multimedia presentation software from stealing your thunder?

5. General Motors CEO Mary Barra inherited a mess when she ascended to the top post in her beleaguered company.

Several GM car models had exhibited problems with their ignition switches, which turned off engines at highway speeds, causing 124 deaths and 275 injuries. As early as 2001, company insiders knew about the problem, but ultimately took no action. Even as the scandal broke, GM first underreported the casualties. Mary Barra pulled no punches. In a town hall meeting, she unflinchingly addressed a global audience. Applying lessons learned in this chapter, what would you advise chief executive Mary Barra to do when she communicates with the public about the scandal? What could Barra say to restore trust in the company?