Final answer:
In crafting effective business messages, the essential questions to ask are why the message is being sent and what is hoped to be achieved. This establishes the message's purpose, aligns the content with the audience's needs, and informs the tone and approach of the communication. The correct choices are options b and e.
Step-by-step explanation:
When embarking on the writing process for effective business messages, especially as beginning writers, it is vital to start by analyzing the purpose and audience of the communication. Among the options provided, the most relevant questions to ask oneself before composing the message are:
b. why am I sending this message? and e. what do I hope to achieve by sending this message?.
These questions are foundational as they clarify the intended outcomes and the necessity of the message, thus guiding the content, tone, and approach of the message to tailor it to the audience's needs and perspectives.
It is essential to define the situation, purpose, and audience before outlining or drafting the message. Understanding the cultural and social contexts in which the audience operates can significantly influence how the message is received and interpreted. Starting with the end in mind ensures that the entirety of the business message is aligned with the communicative goal, whether it is to inform, persuade, instruct, or initiate a business transaction.