Navigating the “Soft No” in Business English

60 分钟
8,000
Google meet icon Lattep icon
No is Better Than Maybe

课程介绍

1. Warm-up: The Cultural Gap (10 mins)
 
Discussion: How do you say "no" to a client in Japanese? (e.g., Kentou shimasu — "I will consider it").

Challenge: In English, "I will consider it" often sounds like a "yes" or a "maybe," which can lead to misunderstandings later.

Goal: Learn how to be clear without being rude.

2. Key Vocabulary: The "Cushion" Method (15 mins)

Instead of saying "I can't do that," use a three-step structure:
 
The Buffer | Soften the blow | "I appreciate the invitation, but..." / "I see where you're coming from..." |

The Pivot | State the refusal | "...at this stage, we aren't able to..." / "...that's not feasible right now." |

The Alternative | Maintain the bridge | "What we can do is..." / "Can we revisit this next quarter?" |

3. Essential Phrases in English for Japanese Business Professionals (15 mins)

When a deadline is too tight: "I'd love to help, but my schedule is currently full. Could we push the delivery to Friday?"

 When a price is too high: "That's a bit outside our budget for this project. Is there any flexibility on the scope?"

 * When you disagree in a meeting: "I hear your point, but I have some concerns regarding the timeline."

4. Roleplay: The Unrealistic Request (20 mins)

Scenario: A long-term client asks you to finish a month-long project in two weeks for no extra charge.

 Task: Use the BufferPivotAlternative method.

 * Sample Response: "I understand this is a high priority for you (Buffer).
However, completing the full scope in two weeks isn't possible without compromising quality (Pivot). Could we prioritize the core features for a two-week launch and handle the rest later? (Alternative)"

Key Takeaway

In Western businesses, a clear "no" with a reason is more respected and appreciated than a vague "maybe."

It shows you value the other person's time and your own professional boundaries.
 
 

Cafetalk 的取消政策

课程预约确定前

  • 随时可以取消。

课程预约确定后

  • 课程时间前 24 小时以上→ 随时可以取消。
  • 课程时间前 24 小时內 → 讲师将可能收取消费。
  • 缺席→ 讲师将可能收取消费。
    (请与讲师确认详情。)

讲师提供的课程

全部课程 全部课程
自我提升
职业生涯
辅导
Coach Chris
来自
住在
1
1

可授课时间段  

周一 20:00 周二 08:00
周二 20:00 周三 08:00
周三 20:00 周四 08:00
周四 20:00 周五 08:00
周五 20:00 周六 08:00
周六 20:00 周日 08:00
可能有其他时间段,请于预约时确认。
※ 以上为 Asia/Tokyo 时间。
Navigating the “Soft No” in Business English
60 分钟
8,000 点
Google meet icon Lattep icon

Coach Chris

来自
 
住在
 
在线客服咨询