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CMA Foundation · Fundamentals of Business Laws and Business Communication · Barriers to Business Communication

Which of the following is the most suitable step for a manager to reduce emotional barriers when giving critical feedback to a subordinate?

The best step is to wait until both are calm and then discuss specific behaviour privately in a neutral tone. This limits defensiveness and embarrassment. Public criticism, jargon or avoiding the matter would either inflame emotions, add new barriers, or leave the problem unaddressed.

  1. AWait until both are calm, then discuss specific behaviour in a private, neutral toneCorrect
  2. BSend the criticism immediately in a group email so everyone learns from it
  3. CUse complex technical vocabulary to keep the discussion formal
  4. DAvoid the discussion entirely to prevent any discomfort

Explanation

Emotional barriers reduce when feedback is delivered calmly, privately and about specific behaviour, which limits defensiveness. Public criticism raises embarrassment and resentment, jargon adds a language barrier, and avoidance leaves the issue unresolved.

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