Based on the theories, concepts, and guidelines covered in our readings and course sessions this semester, write a short essay (about three well-developed paragraphs) describing how you could best respond to your choice of two of the business communication scenarios described below.* Your responses will be evaluated based on your demonstrated familiarity with the course content and your ability to apply it to real-world situations. Write a separate short essay for each of the scenarios you choose, and number each one accordingly. Start your essays below, attaching additional sheets as needed.

Scenario 1

Imagine that you are a regional sales manager for Inspirion Corporation, a company that sells and distributes seasonal gift items such as decorative artificial plants, caps, T-shirts, blankets, jewelry, and some perishable items. Traditionally, Inspirion has advertised and marketed its products to the public through catalog sales and to organizations through direct-sales representatives who call on business managers in need of gifts for their clients.

You have been assigned to organize a meeting for all district and regional sales managers at a ski resort in Colorado. The purpose of the meeting is to develop a strategic plan for implementing a new Web-based strategy for online sales-something they know very little about. You are aware that many of the "old guard" sales managers are resistant to the idea of e-business and online sales. You also know that you have been selected for this task because you have been actively supporting the idea of online sales and that your chances of being promoted to vice president depend on the success of the venture.

You have many dilemmas facing you: How will you organize the meeting? How can you keep the group sharp and focused on the mission of developing an online sales strategy? How can you promote the exchange of well-reasoned ideas? How will the group eventually make a decision? It is imperative that the group members buy into the decision before they leave for their own regions and districts. How should you proceed?