Author Archives: Court Bovee
From Puffs to Bluffs: How General Mills Missed the Mark with Business Communication
Discussion Questions: and Answers 1. What communication mistakes did General Mills make in their response to the Cocoa Puffs shrinkflation? Lack of transparency: General Mills failed to directly acknowledge the size reduction, focusing instead on highlighting recipe changes. This created an impression of being evasive and dismissive of consumer concerns. Ignoring consumer sentiment: General Mills […]
From Outrage to Adjustment: Netflix Navigates Password Sharing Policy Backlash
Answers to Discussion Questions: 1. How effectively did Netflix communicate the initial password-sharing restrictions? Did their approach consider potential user reactions and concerns? Netflix's initial communication regarding password-sharing restrictions likely lacked sufficient consideration for potential user reactions and concerns. The policy faced immediate backlash, suggesting the message may have been unclear, abrupt, or failed to […]
From KitKat to Catastrophe: A Case Study in Failed Business Communication
Answers 1. Here's how Nestle could have handled the Greenpeace criticism differently: Acknowledge the concerns: Publicly acknowledge Greenpeace's criticisms and express understanding of the environmental concerns surrounding palm oil. Transparency and commitment: Explain their current efforts towards sustainable palm oil sourcing and outline a clear roadmap for future improvements. Open dialogue: Encourage open dialogue with […]
Unlocking Student Potential: Helping Students See Why Business Communication Is Vital
As a business communication instructor, you have the exciting opportunity to transform student perceptions of this course. It's one thing to know this material is important, and another entirely to ignite genuine enthusiasm in your students. Here's how to frame the course in a way that resonates with their ambitions and goals: Start with the […]
H&M’s “Conscious” Clothing: Sustainable Savior or Greenwashing Sham?
Discussion Questions and Answers: 1. Balancing Sustainability and Transparency: Companies like H&M can avoid greenwashing by focusing on specific and verifiable claims about their sustainability initiatives. This includes providing data, using clear language, and avoiding vague terms like "eco-friendly" without explanation. Transparency is key. Companies should disclose their entire environmental footprint, not just highlight selective […]
Elevate Your Business Communication Instruction: Effective Strategies for Success
As a business communication instructor, shaping future professionals requires a dynamic approach that fosters both knowledge and practical skills. Here are key strategies to become a more effective instructor and empower your students, supported by research references: 1. Tailor your communication to your audience. Understand your students' backgrounds, learning styles, and career aspirations. Adapt your […]
Lost in Rome, Ignored at Home: CEO Finally Answers After Online Shaming Storm
ANSWERS TO DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. How can CEOs effectively communicate with frustrated customers during a crisis, balancing personal engagement with the risk of appearing inauthentic or staged? Balancing act: CEOs need to find a middle ground between: Authentic empathy: Showing genuine understanding and concern for the customer's situation. Transparency and accountability: Acknowledging mistakes and outlining […]
A Personal Note from Court Bovee and John Thill
Subject: The Thrill of Business Communication in a Dynamic World Exciting times lie ahead for business communication educators! Current events constantly offer real-world examples that can motivate and energize students, propelling them towards even greater success. We understand the challenge of incorporating real-world scenarios into your curriculum. That's why in upcoming posts, I'll be providing a […]
Cardi B, Kim K, and the Price of Poor Disclosure: A Business Communication Lesson
ANSWERS: Here's a breakdown of the questions and how to approach answers, considering some ethical complexities involved: Question 1: Does pairing health-focused products with popular influencers create a false sense of scientific legitimacy or medical endorsement? Yes, it often can. Many influencers don't have qualifications in health, nutrition, or medicine. Their popularity arises from other […]