The most effective statement in a bad-news letter declining an invitation to speak to a professional organization would be
A)Although I'm already booked the night of your dinner, I would be happy to speak to your organization sometime next year.
B)I regret to inform you that I am unable to speak to your professional organization.
C)I'm not interested in addressing your professional organization.
D)Although I'm not authorized to tell you why, I can't speak at your dinner.

Question

The most effective statement in a bad-news letter declining an invitation to speak to a professional organization would be 
A)Although I'm already booked the night of your dinner, I would be happy to speak to your organization sometime next year.
B)I regret to inform you that I am unable to speak to your professional organization.
C)I'm not interested in addressing your professional organization.
D)Although I'm not authorized to tell you why, I can't speak at your dinner.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Option A expresses regret at not being able to attend but leaves open the possibility of speaking in the future. It is polite and professional, while still conveying the necessary bad news. Options B, C, and D are either blunt or unhelpful in their tone and do not offer any alternative solutions.

The Most Effective Statement in a Bad-News Letter Declining an Invitation