Our Top Ten Phrases to Inspire a Collaborative Conversation

Running a business large or small requires keen communication and decision-making skills. Sometimes we know just what to say, how to say it and what must be done. In other cases, it is in your best interest to gather information and ideas from others. Below, we suggest our top ten diplomatic phrases to inspire a collaborative conversation. These tips set everyone up for success!

I have observed…

When you acknowledge that your observation is a subjective truth, rather than an absolute one, you allow people to share without having to overturn your version of “the way it is.”

I have interpreted x to mean…

With this phrase, you send a message that the same information can engender remarkably different interpretations and conclusions.

Would you consider…

When you use the verb ‘to consider’ in earnest, you are speaking diplomatically.

Yes, and…

By trading in the ubiquitous ‘yes, but,’ you allow an idea to evolve, instead of dissolve and in doing so, you change the way the team functions.

I have a different perspective…

In this phrase, you fully express your opinion while affirming the premise on which collaboration is based—the necessity of multiple perspectives.

What if we…

The important ‘if’ lowers the stakes of a given solution, thus creating a space for imaginative activity.

I believe it would benefit us to…

This steers the group’s focus towards what would benefit the whole, and away from what can be more palpable—fear of change.

Perhaps we can generate some key questions…

Sometimes it is more efficient to ask questions, if you want answers to come forth naturally.

If we accomplish x through today’s discussion, we should be very satisfied…

After a sustained period of brainstorming, a statement that re-establishes focus staves off the fog made of “too many options” and “too many variables.”

Do we know what our next steps are…

This question can be asked when two work together or twenty, and it is always helpful. Capture the momentum of what has been accomplished by articulating follow-through.