Ch.15: Memos

• Appreciate the vital role of memos in the workplace
• Memos (memorandums) give directives, instruct, relay information, and make requests
• Internal document- distributed within an organization and not to people outside the company
• Picture a typical memo's audience and purpose
• Who will receive this memo?
• What is the purpose?
• E-mails are less formal than a memo and might be ignored in a crowded inbox. 
• Know the parts and format of a standard memo
• Memo or Memorandum is centered at the top of the page
• A left-aligned heading identifies the parties involved, date, and subject
• Distribution notation is located at the bottom- indicates if copies should be sent to anyone not listed in the "To" line
• The body focuses on one topic
• Use a short intro, a paragraph or two, and conclusion
• Consistent formatting is important- memos are meant to be read quickly
• Understand the importance of proper tone in all memos
• What do the recipients want to know?
• Avoid using a hostile, bossy, condescending, aggressive, or differential and passive tone.
• Use an appropriate approach to the subject. Direct vs. Indirect
• Informal, short memos can be sent digitally
• Write various common types of memos
• Transmittal Memo- accompanies a package of materials
• Summary or Follow-up Memo- provides written record of a meeting or conversation
• Routine Miscellaneous Memo- announcements, updates, request information/ action.
  These are more frequently being sent via e-mail