A critical reading of impression management in times of financial crisis and implications for business writing

Abstract

This paper examines the use of linguistic devices in a Chairman’s Statement to foreground a positive self-image and background references to financial shortcomings in times of financial distress. Drawing on impression management theory and critical discourse analysis, we reveal the systematic use of language to portray an organization as a responsible entity caught up in uncertain times rather than one which is accountable for poor financial performance. The study draws attention to how business students may benefit from a critical reading course which heightens their awareness of how linguistic devices are used to shape reality for stakeholders while managing impression.

Keywords:

• Business writing
• critical reading
• evaluation
• impersonalization
• impression management theory