Welcome back to our ongoing series where we delve into the world of Business English Phrases. If you found our previous post on essential phrases for the workplace helpful, you’re in for a treat today! We’re continuing with part two, bringing you five more essential phrases that can elevate your professional communication skills. Let’s not waste any time and dive right in!
We’ve all been there—mid-conversation or during a meeting, and we miss what was said. It’s easy to just nod and pretend we got it, but asking for clarification is the way to go. Saying, “I didn’t quite catch that,” is a polite method to request a repeat of the information. This phrase shows that you are attentive and invested in the conversation, which is crucial in a professional setting. It’s particularly handy in noisy environments or during calls when the connection might be spotty.
Example:
In a meeting, if a point slips past you, lean in with, “I didn’t quite catch that; would you mind repeating what you just said?” It’s simple, polite, and shows your dedication to clear communication.
When it’s time to progress with a project or task, this phrase is your best friend. “Move forward with” signals a shift from planning to doing. It’s a cue to your team that it’s time to take action and also serves as a motivational boost.
Example:
A great way to use this in a sentence would be, “Please update your reports so we can move forward with finalizing the client contracts.” It indicates movement and decision-making, which are pivotal in business operations.
This is your go-to phrase for ensuring everyone is on the same page. In the middle of a complex explanation or after laying out a plan, asking, “Does that make sense?” helps confirm that your colleagues or clients follow and agree with what’s been said. It’s a fantastic tool for fostering mutual understanding and avoiding miscommunications.
Example:
Imagine discussing potential changes in a project timeline: “So, if we move forward with the changes now, the client will be confused and won’t know how to react. That’s why we need to get in touch with the client first and inform them about the upcoming changes. Does that make sense?”
This phrase is all about staying informed without coming across as pushy. “Keep me posted” is a light, friendly way to request updates on a project or situation. It implies trust and encourages open lines of communication among team members.
Example:
Drop a casual, “Keep me posted on the project’s progress, alright?” to remind your team that you’re interested in the ongoing developments without micromanaging.
Delegation is key in any workplace, and “hand off” is the phrase you need when transferring responsibility. It’s about trusting another team member to take over aspects of a project, facilitating smooth transitions within your team.
Example:
When delegating, you could say, “I’ve handed off the task to Alex. He will make sure to complete the rest before the product ships to the client.” It shows confidence in your team’s capabilities and helps streamline workflows.
There you have it—five more essential phrases that can significantly enhance your effectiveness in the workplace. Incorporating these into your daily interactions not only aids in clear communication but also demonstrates your professional competence. Practice them regularly to become a more confident and effective communicator.
Stay tuned for more tips on mastering Business English, including Accent Modification, that can help you advance in your career. Until next time, keep practicing and refining your skills!
