Phrases That Encourage Cooperation

(Well…you were looking for this after the last post, weren't you?)

     In a previous post I listed phrases we use that inhibit change. They were phrases that tend to signal "We won't change", "It can't be done", and the like. One reader wrote me directly suggesting approaches to dealing with some of the change inhibitors. He suggested the following responses to change inhibitors that represent lack of commitment on the part of leadership (not enough time, money, personnel, equipment, facilities…resources):

• Use problem-solving techniques to investigate why "it" failed the last time, and to develop corrective action.
• Use sales and marketing tools to analyze features-benefits, overcome objections, and to perform cost-benefit analysis comparisons.

(Thank you, T.J. You know who you are.)

     I received a list of positive phrases in my e-mail inbox. These phrases particularly interested me because part of my workshops on professional behaviors and attitudes that reflect positive work ethics includes positive words and positive messages that encourage cooperation and action. These are the phrases included in the recently-received list that can have a positive impact:

• Thank you.
• I could use your help on this.
• What do you think?
• How would you approach this?
• How can I help you?

(Another thank you, to T.S. Yes, these are real people who have not given me permission to post their names.)

Open a closed mind or encourage teamwork and action using the above phrases. Of course there are plenty more that create a positive impact. You use others in your own interactions as you lead people to share ideas, develop solutions, and plan for change. Imagine the possibilities if the list of positive phrases were twice as long as that of those that inhibit change! Embrace change…it's one of the few "sure things" we experience.