In business communication, what is “tone”?

In business communication, "tone" refers to the attitude conveyed in messages. This encompasses the feelings and emotions that the writer or speaker expresses, which can significantly impact how the message is received by the audience. For instance, a friendly and approachable tone can foster positive relationships, while a formal and distant tone might be appropriate in more serious contexts. The tone can also vary based on factors such as the audience, purpose, and context of the communication.

The other options focus on different aspects of communication. The style of the presentation pertains to the methods and techniques used to convey information, which can enhance the message but does not define tone. The format of the document relates to its layout and organizational structure, which affects readability rather than the emotional quality of the message. Lastly, the content of the message refers to the actual information being communicated, which is separate from the tone, even though both work together to deliver an effective message.