B1 - LGF - Language for Negotiations Business English

Language of Negotiations

Vocabulary and Speaking

B1 Business English

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Initiating & Conducting Negotiations Products & Services Finding Solutions & Compromises Building Rapport & Communication Closing the Deal & Follow-up Cultural Considerations

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations

Actions: propose, discuss, suggest, counter-offer, negotiate, clarify Adjectives: initial, final, flexible, firm, reasonable, competitive Nouns: agreement, attendee, condition, deal, plan, understanding

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations: Actions

Click the terms to learn more about them.

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations

Modifying Actions

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations

Modifying Actions

INSTRUCTIONS: Add two to five words to the gap sentence so that it shares the same meaning as the original sentence. You must include the unchanged key word in your answer. Click the space to reveal the answer.

Sentence: She suggested taking a short break to refresh our minds.Key Word: MADEGap Sentence: She ______________________ of taking a short break to refresh our minds. Sentence: Can we negotiate a flexible work schedule? Key Word: HAVEGap Sentence: Can we ______________________ about a flexible work schedule? Sentence: Can we propose a different strategy for marketing? Key Word: OFFERGap Sentence: Can ______________________ for a different strategy for marketing?

made the suggestion

have a negotiation

we offer a proposal

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations

Modifying Actions

INSTRUCTIONS: Add two to five words to the gap sentence so that it shares the same meaning as the original sentence. You must include the unchanged key word in your answer. Click the space to reveal the answer.

Sentence: Let's discuss the upcoming project during the meeting.Key Word: HAVEGap Sentence: Let's ___________________________ upcoming project during the meeting. Sentence: Please clarify the instructions for the upcoming project. Key Word: ONGap Sentence: Please provide ________________________ instructions for the upcoming project. Sentence: When negotiating, don't hesitate to counter-offer. Key Word: PRESENTGap Sentence: When negotiating, don't hesitate __________________________.

have a discussion about the

clarification on the

to present a counter-offer

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations: Adjectives

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Initiating & Conducting Negotiations

Modifying Adjectives

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations

Modifying Actions

INSTRUCTIONS: Add two to five words to the gap sentence so that it shares the same meaning as the original sentence. You must include the unchanged key word in your answer. Click the space to reveal the answer.

Sentence: Companies stay competitive for customer attention by using various pricing strategies.Key Word: FORGap Sentence: Companies use various pricing strategies __________________ customer attention. Sentence: Once we make the schedule final, we can begin promoting the event. Key Word: SCHEDULEGap Sentence: Once we _______________________, we can begin promoting the event. Sentence: She has the firm belief that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is important. Key Word: BELIEVESGap Sentence: She __________________ in the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

to compete for

finalize the schedule

firmly believes

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations

Modifying Actions

INSTRUCTIONS: Add two to five words to the gap sentence so that it shares the same meaning as the original sentence. You must include the unchanged key word in your answer. Click the space to reveal the answer.

Sentence: It is important to be reasonable with colleagues when addressing workplace issues.Key Word: REASONGap Sentence: It's important _________________________ when addressing workplace issues. Sentence: She had initial hesitation but later embraced the leadership role. Key Word: HESITATEDGap Sentence: She ___________________________________________ later embraced the leadership role. Sentence: The company's policy promotes being flexible to accommodate employees' unique needs. Key Word: TOGap Sentence: The company's policy ____________________ accommodate employees' unique needs.

to reason with colleagues

hesitated initially but OR initially hesitated but

promotes flexibility to

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations: Noun

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Initiating & Conducting Negotiations

Modifying Nouns

Products & Services

Types: product, service, package, feature, quantity, delivery Cost & Value: price, discount, value, quality, benefit, guarantee Descriptions: reliable, durable, efficient, innovative, unique

Finding Solutions & Compromises

Challenges: problem, issue, disagreement, obstacle, deadline Solutions: compromise, solution, alternative, benefit, advantage Actions: consider, suggest, agree, modify, adjust

Building Rapport & Communication

Positive communication: listen, understand, respect, build trust, collaborate Negative communication: disagree, interrupt, pressure, threaten, be aggressive Phrases: thank you, appreciate, I understand, let me clarify, could you please...

Closing the Deal & Follow-up

Actions: finalize, agree, sign, confirm, follow up Terms: contract, payment terms, delivery date, warranty Phrases: we have a deal, let's shake hands, please confirm receipt, looking forward to...

clarify

Usage Tips

verb

Definition:

Use "clarify" when additional information or explanations are needed for better comprehension.

To seek additional information or explanation for better understanding.

Sample Sentences:

Words Often Used With the Term:

"Please clarify the instructions for the upcoming project." "I need to clarify the details with my supervisor." "Can you clarify the purpose of the meeting?"

• clarify the meaning
• clarify the situation
• clarify any doubts

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

What is something that you often need to clarify at work?

• explain
• elucidate
• interpret

propose

Usage Tips

verb

Definition:

Use "propose" when introducing new concepts or suggestions in discussions. It's effective in both formal and informal settings to initiate dialogue.

To suggest a plan, idea, or offer to initiate discussions.

Sample Sentences:

Words Often Used With the Term:

"I would like to propose a new pricing structure." "The team proposed a collaborative approach to the project."

• propose an idea
• propose a solution
• propose a plan

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

Can you share a situation where proposing a new idea was essential, either in a professional or personal setting? What were the outcomes?

• suggest
• recommend
• advocate

deal

Usage Tips

noun

Use "deal" to refer to an agreement or arrangement, applicable in both formal and informal business contexts.

Definition:

An agreement or arrangement, often involving the exchange of goods, services, or terms between parties.

Sample Sentences:

Words Often Used With the Term:

"They closed a lucrative deal with the new client." "Negotiating a fair deal is crucial for the success of the business."

• business deal
• lucrative deal
• fair deal

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

Can you share an experience where successfully striking a deal had a positive impact on a situation?

• agreement
• transaction
• arrangement

final

Usage Tips

adjective

Use "final" in both formal and informal situations when discussing the concluding parts or decisions in any process.

Definition:

Referring to the last stages or decisions in a process, project, or event.

Sample Sentences:

Words Often Used With the Term:

"We are in the final stages of reaching an agreement." "The final decision will be made after careful consideration."

• final step
• final decision
• final phase

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

Before a big trip or event, what are some essential tasks you complete during the final preparation stage?

• last
• concluding
• end

plan

Usage Tips

noun

Use "plan" to describe a detailed proposal or strategy, applicable in both formal and informal discussions.

Definition:

A detailed proposal or strategy outlining steps and objectives for achieving a particular goal.

Sample Sentences:

Words Often Used With the Term:

"The marketing plan includes strategies to target a wider audience." "Developing a comprehensive business plan is essential for long-term success."

• strategic plan
• business plan
• action plan

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

Can you think of a situation where having a well-thought-out plan contributed to the success of a project or endeavor?

• strategy
• proposal
• outline

firm

Usage Tips

adjective

Use "firm" in both formal and informal situations when describing a strong and unwavering stance in various aspects of life.

Definition:

Holding a strong and unwavering stance, whether it's in opinions, decisions, or actions.

Words Often Used With the Term:

Sample Sentences:

"It's important to be firm in your beliefs, even when facing challenges." "Being firm in your commitments helps build trust with others."

• firm stance
• firm commitment
• stand firm

Synonyms:

Discussion Question:

• strong
• resolute
• unwavering

Can you share a personal experience where being firm in your decisions or beliefs made a positive impact? How did it influence others?

condition

Usage Tips

noun

Use "condition" to describe a factor or requirement that impacts the terms or circumstances, relevant in both formal and informal contexts.

Definition:

A particular state or circumstance that affects the terms, quality, or nature of something.

Sample Sentences:

Words Often Used With the Term:

"One condition of the contract is timely payment for services rendered." "The success of the project is dependent on certain conditions being met."

• contract condition
• financial condition
• specific condition

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

Can you think of a situation where specific conditions significantly influenced the outcome of a decision or agreement?

• term
• stipulation
• requirement

understanding

Usage Tips

noun

Use "understanding" to describe a shared comprehension or agreement, applicable in both formal and informal contexts.

Definition:

A shared comprehension or agreement about a particular situation, idea, or concept.

Sample Sentences:

Words Often Used With the Term:

"There should be a clear understanding of the project goals among team members." "Building a mutual understanding is key to effective communication."

• mutual understanding
• shared understanding
• common understanding

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

Can you recall a situation where having a common understanding improved communication or collaboration?

• agreement
• consensus
• clarity

flexible

Usage Tips

adjective

Use "flexible" in both formal and informal situations when describing the ability to adapt or change in various contexts.

Definition:

Having the ability to adapt, change, or be versatile in different situations.

Words Often Used With the Term:

Sample Sentences:

"Being flexible in your approach allows for creative problem-solving." "Flexibility in life helps navigate unexpected challenges."

• flexible approach
• flexible mindset
• flexibility in thinking

Synonyms:

Discussion Question:

• adaptable
• versatile
• accommodating

Would you consider yourself to be flexible? What is a situation in which you needed to be flexible?

competative

Usage Tips

adjective

Definition:

Use "competitive" in both formal and informal situations when talking about trying to be better than others in the market.

Trying to be better or win compared to others in the market.

Sample Sentences:

Words Often Used With the Term:

"Our prices are competitive in the industry." "To do well, we need to be competitive in the market."

• competitive advantage
• competitive pricing
• competitive edge

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

Can you think of a situation where being competitive was important for success, either in business or personal endeavors? What strategies were used?

• strategic
• ambitious
• trying to win

initial

Usage Tips

adjective

Use "initial" in both formal and informal situations when referring to the starting or beginning stages of any process.

Definition:

Relating to the starting or beginning stage of any process, idea, or venture.

Words Often Used With the Term:

Sample Sentences:

"In the initial phase of a project, planning is crucial." "Initial discussions laid the foundation for the team's success."

• initial phase
• initial step
• initial concept

Synonyms:

Discussion Question:

• starting
• beginning
• first

Can you think of a personal project where the initial stages played a significant role in its success? How did you approach the beginning?

suggest

Usage Tips

verb

Use "suggest" when putting forward ideas or recommendations for consideration. It can be used in formal and informal situations.

Definition:

To present an idea or recommendation for consideration.

Words Often Used With the Term:

• An action with an -ing ending (gerunds):I suggest taking a nap.They suggested trying the new restaurant.
• An object:I suggest the ramen.We suggest the cheaper option.

Sample Sentences:

"I would like to suggest a more flexible payment schedule." "Can I suggest a change to the project timeline?" "She suggests including a summary in the report for clarity."

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

Which cities do you suggest tourists visit in your country? What should they do there?

• propose
• recommend
• advocate

discuss

Usage Tips

verb

Definition:

"Discuss" is versatile and can be used in various contexts, from casual talks to formal negotiations. Encourages open communication and idea exploration.

Engage in conversation to explore ideas, issues, or proposals.

Sample Sentences:

Words Often Used With the Term:

"Let's discuss the terms and conditions of the agreement." "We need to discuss the potential changes before finalizing the plan."

• discuss with (someone)
• discuss about (something)
• discuss (verb+ing)

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

Think of a recent discussion you had. How did engaging in conversation contribute to reaching a decision or understanding?

• dialogue
• converse
• talk

attendee

Usage Tips

noun

Use "attendee" to refer to an individual present at a particular gathering, applicable in both formal and informal settings.

Definition:

A person who is present at an event, meeting, or gathering.

Sample Sentences:

Words Often Used With the Term:

"The conference had a diverse group of attendees from various industries." "As an attendee, it's important to actively participate in discussions."

• conference attendee
• meeting attendee
• event attendee

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

When deciding on attendees for a meeting, what should be considered?

• participant
• guest
• observer

reasonable

Usage Tips

adjective

Use "reasonable" in both formal and informal situations when describing fair and sensible approaches in various aspects of life.

Definition:

Being fair, sensible, and showing good judgment in decisions, actions, or proposals.

Words Often Used With the Term:

Sample Sentences:

"It's important to be reasonable when resolving conflicts with others." "Being reasonable in negotiations fosters positive relationships."

• reasonable decision
• reasonable approach
• reasonable compromise

Synonyms:

Discussion Question:

• fair
• sensible
• practical

When negotiating a salary or price, what factors help determine what's a reasonable offer to make?

negotiate

Usage Tips

verb

Use "negotiate" when engaging in formal discussions to reach agreements.

Definition:

To engage in formal discussions to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.

Words Often Used With the Term:

• About: This specifies the topic of negotiation. (e.g., "We can negotiate about the price.")
• For: This indicates the desired outcome. (e.g., "They are negotiating for a better salary.")
• Over: This clarifies the specific point of negotiation. (e.g., "We negotiated over the terms of the contract.")
• To: This shows the purpose of negotiation. (e.g., "Let's meet to negotiate a mutually beneficial agreement.")

Sample Sentences:

"We need to negotiate the terms before finalizing the deal." "Negotiate with the supplier for bulk discounts." "Successful negotiation resulted in a better product price."

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

What are possible challenges faced when negotiating?

• bargain
• discuss
• compromise

counter-offer

Usage Tips

verb

Definition:

Use "counter-offer" when responding to an initial proposal with alternative terms.

To respond to an initial proposal with an alternative set of terms.

Sample Sentences:

Words Often Used With the Term:

"When negotiating, don't hesitate to counter-offer." "They decided to counter-offer for a better price." "Feel free to counter-offer if the terms are not suitable."

• counter-offer with (an alternative)

Discussion Question:

Near Synonyms:

When is it appropriate to counter-offer?

• negotiate
• bargain
• propose

agreement

Usage Tips

noun

Use "agreement" to describe a formal understanding or arrangement between parties, applicable in both formal and informal contexts.

Definition:

A mutual understanding or arrangement reached by two or more parties, often formalized in writing.

Sample Sentences:

Words Often Used With the Term:

"The contract is a legally binding agreement between the buyer and the seller." "Reaching an agreement on the terms of the deal is crucial for both parties."

• contractual agreement
• verbal agreement
• written agreement

Discussion Question:

Synonyms:

Can you think of a situation where having a clear agreement would be essential in personal or professional interactions?

• compromise
• consensus
• understanding