Many negative messages are written in response to requests from an internal or external correspondent; but on occasion, managers need to make unexpected announcements of a negative nature. Although such announcements happen in the normal course of business, they are generally unexpected. Accordingly, except in the case of minor changes, the indirect approach is usually the better choice. Therefore, open with a buffer that establishes some mutual ground between you and the reader, advance your reasoning, announce the change, and close with as much positive information and sentiment as is appropriate under the circumstances.