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Using Positive Language

Using Positive Language . January 2007, Alex Righolt. Introduction. Language is a very powerful tool.  The way you express yourself will affect whether your message is received positively or negatively – or not at all.

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Using Positive Language

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  1. Using Positive Language January 2007,Alex Righolt

  2. Introduction • Language is a very powerful tool.  • The way you express yourself will affect whether your message is received positively or negatively – or not at all. • Even when you are conveying unpleasant news, the impact can be softened by the use of what we call positive language.

  3. Introduction Here is an example of Negative language: “We can’t supply this printer before Friday” Note the negative word “can’t”.

  4. Introduction We can easily turn this into a positive statement: “We can’t supply this printer before Friday” changes to a positive statement having the same meaning: “we can supply on Friday“.

  5. Introduction • In this presentation we are looking at ways you can communicate in a more positive way. • Positive communication results in cooperation, rather than argument or confrontation.  • You can use positive language to project a helpful, positive image rather than a destructive negative one.

  6. Introduction • No-sayers don't always have negative attitudes.  • In many cases they simply use language that gives the impression of negativity. • They have not learned to phrase their comments in more constructive, positive ways. 

  7. Introduction • It is very easy to fall into the negative language pattern.  • Many of us do so without being aware of it, particularly in written communication. 

  8. Characteristics of positive and negative language Negative language often has the following characteristics:   • tells what cannot be done. • has a subtle tone of blame. • includes words like can't, won't, unable to, that tell the recipient what the sending agency cannot do. • does not stress positive actions that would be appropriate, or positive consequences.

  9. Characteristics of positive and negative language Positive phrasing and language have the following qualities:   • tells the recipient what can be done.  • suggests alternatives and choices available to the recipient. • sounds helpful and encouraging rather than bureaucratic. • stresses positive actions and positive consequences that can be anticipated. 

  10. Common negative language • If you want to move to more positive communication, the first task is to identify and eliminate common negative phrasing.  • The following negative statements are quite common, and should be avoided whenever possible.  

  11. Common negative language Expressions that suggest carelessness:  a)      You neglected to specify...   b)      You failed to include... c)      You overlooked enclosing...  

  12. Common Negative Language/Phrasing Phrases that suggest the person is lying:   a)      You claim that... b)      You say that... c)      You state that...  

  13. Common Negative Language/Phrasing Expressions that imply that the recipient is not too bright:   a)      We cannot see how you... b)      We fail to understand... c)      We are at a loss to know...  

  14. Common Negative Language/Phrasing Demanding phrases that imply coercion/pressure:   a)      You should... b)      You ought to... c)      You must... d)      We must ask you to... e)      We must insist...  

  15. Common Negative Language/Phrasing Phrases that might be interpreted as sarcastic or patronizing:   a)      No doubt... b)      We will thank you to... c)      You understand, of course... d)      Please respond soon...  

  16. Positive Phrasing • If you are going to eliminate negative phrases, you will need to replace them with more positive ways of conveying the same information.  • Following are just a few examples of positive phrasing. 

  17. Positive Phrasing • If you can send us [whatever], we can complete the process for you.   • The information we have suggests that you have a different viewpoint on this issue.  Let me explain our perspective.   • Might we suggest that you [suggestion].   • One option open to you is [option].   • We can help you to [whatever] if you can send us [whatever].  

  18. Positive Phrasing • Be sure your messages include positive words like these, used sincerely: value     benefit     enjoy     pleasure     pleased     inspire     enhance     please     thank you     appreciate    profit     feel free     saving     honour     gain    help you     assist you     happy      satisfied     grateful     welcome     glad     admire     like     delighted     generous

  19. Changing negative phrases into positive ones

  20. Changing negative phrases into positive ones

  21. Changing negative phrases into positive ones

  22. Changing negative phrases into positive ones

  23. Changing negative phrases into positive ones

  24. Changing negative phrases into positive ones

  25. Changing negative phrases into positive ones

  26. Changing negative phrases into positive ones

  27. Changing negative phrases into positive ones

  28. Changing negative phrases into positive ones

  29. Changing negative phrases into positive ones

  30. Changing negative phrases into positive ones

  31. Conclusion

  32. Using Positive Language Thank you for your interest. The end of this presentation

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