What does a buffer provide when delivering bad news?

A buffer serves to soften the impact of bad news by helping reduce the pain or shock that the recipient might experience upon receiving it. This technique involves including a neutral or positive statement at the beginning of the communication, creating a more empathetic environment and preparing the recipient for the forthcoming unfavorable information. By doing so, the communicator demonstrates sensitivity to the emotional distress that the news may cause, which can help facilitate a more constructive conversation and potentially maintain a working relationship between the parties involved.

This approach is particularly important in organizational communication, where the dynamics of relationships and morale can significantly affect productivity and collaboration. A well-crafted buffer indicates that the communicator recognizes the difficulty of the situation and cares about the impact of the news on the recipient.