Task:
In their negotiation exercises the managers
on Dr Zap’s seminar sometimes find themselves in difficult situations.
English speakers know a key expression for each problem situation.
|
I think we need to look at the exact
figures. |
Just
give me a moment to do some calculations |
|
So is, that quite clear...? |
I’m sorry, could you go through that again? |
|
I don’t think we’re talking about the same
thing. |
Yes, I think we’re talking at
cross-purposes. |
|
Can we say it’s agreed here and now? |
I’ll have to come back to you on this. |
|
Where does this January figure come from? |
Let me just check. Could you bear with me a
moment? |
|
So what is your basis of calculation here? |
I’m sorry, I don’t have the figures to hand. |
Example The other person has just realized that
you are talking about different products! You say
Yes, I think we’re talking at
cross-purposes.
a) The other person wants you to agree a definite price today, but you need
to consult your boss at the office tomorrow before committing yourself.
b) He/she suddenly asks you what discount you would
make for a very large order indeed. You need a minute to work it out.
c) He/she asks to see the commission payments for the
last three years. You didn’t bring these figures because they are not really
important.
d) He/she suddenly asks the price of similar products
in the range. You have the price list in your briefcase - somewhere.
e) He/she has already explained the commission system
twice, but you are still not really clear about it.
f)You have been talking about air
transportation costs while they have been talking about costs for
transportation by sea. They suddenly realize and point this out.