6.6 Using “You” Viewpoint Strategically
Sometimes using “I” or “We” pronouns can seem as the writer is in control or in the power position. When the writers use “You” to start the sentence, readers are in control of their choices, thus attaining autonomy in the action.
Example
- We must receive your signed approval before we process your refund.
- You can receive your refund in the next 48 hours if you send your signed approval by 5 pm today.
While the first example takes power away from the reader, focusing on the writer of the message, second sentence provides full autonomy to the reader, thus giving them more say in the outcome.
To engage in a constructive tone, one may want to avoid using pronouns entirely, and so with this the “you” viewpoint may not be useful. If the writer uses the “you” viewpoint in some situations, it may sound accusatory to the reader. The example below give an illustration of this accusatory tone.
Example
- Accusatory tone: Your application has been denied/ We are denying your application.
- Constructive tone: At this time, the application has been denied.
