When
you disagree:
1. It seems to me that the problem is . . .
2. My concern is that we may not have enough . . .
3. Please explain this to me. There appears to be
an error . . .
4. While I don't agree with your conclusion, you certainly
have the right to your opinion.
5. Would it be possible for you to recheck . . .?
When
you are interrupted:
6. Pardon me, I'm not through. Just give me a few
seconds to finish my point.
When
you run into a buzz saw:
7. Obviously, you are too upset to discuss this now.
I'll talk to you later.
8. We don't have to agree, but is there any reason
we can't be civil to each other?
9. I can see why you may feel that way . . .
10. You'd have every right to feel that way if that were the case.
11. I understand you have a problem with that, but I expect to
be treated with courtesy, respect, and the professionalism I've
earned.
12. Please tell me frankly what I've done to offend you.
When
you're being pressured:
13. I don't feel totally comfortable [with that] [talking about
that] . . .
14. Don't you think it would be a good idea to hold off until
. . .?
When
you reprimand:
15. What steps would you suggest to correct that?
16. I'm sure you don't realize it, but . . .
17. Perhaps you didn't understand the consequences that could
result from . . .
18. Maybe I failed to make myself clear . . .
When
you want to express your anger:
19. I have to tell you that I feel offended by that remark.
20. I was upset when I realized the decision was based on . .
.
21. I felt I was treated badly when I wasn't informed in advance
about the change.
When
you want to clear up confusion:
22. I'd appreciate your help with this muddled negotiation. Is
it true that you said . . .?
23. When all the facts are in and verified, it will be apparent
that . . .
24. It looks like following this system got our signals crossed.
However, we can . . .
25. Perhaps I misunderstood. Are you saying that . . . ?
26. Let me see if I understand this. Would I be correct in assuming
that you feel . . .?
