This must have happened to you so many times. You do not agree with something said in a business meeting. As a spaniard, you may be tempted to say outright ‘I disagree‘. That may not be perceived as nicely as you think.
Can you use a more ‘british’ approach?
Start with a Question
Before you even discuss your view, you can introduce it gently with ‘You don’t think …?’ Try no to sound dogmatic, or imposing your view. Rise the intonation at the end of your question so it sounds diplomatic.
Example:
You don’t think it’s better if everyone has a share in the board meeting?
Start with a ‘Yes’
‘Yes, but you have to admit…’ and then you talk about how you see the matter. The more powerful is your line of reasoning, the more persuasive you are.
Example:
Yes, I see your point, but you have to admit she hasn’t had the opportunity to present the project
ACTIVITY
Let’s role play! A client is complaining about your new price list. It’s had a 5% increase. Your client has been buying less and less over the past 6 months. You had a price agreement based on volume with them. They are not reaching the numbers! How would you reason with them?
How Intelligible are you in English?
Attitude Eats up Aptitude for Breakfast