Negotiations Insist or Soften position

Without looking at the sheet below, listen to your teacher and lift up one of the cards you have been given depending on whether you think it is language to insist (repeat the same point, not move) or soften your position (compromise) 

This is fundamental

I can’t compromise on this point

That is my last word on this matter

I’m going to have to insist

 

This is a matter of principle

I’m standing firm on this

That’s absolutely my last offer

I don’t think we’re making any progress here

 

I don’t think there’s anything more to say

I’m really not in a position to be able to do that

That doesn’t seem like a serious offer

Unfortunately, I’m unable to accept that

 

I was hoping for something considerably better

I’m sorry, but we’re not very happy with this offer

I understood that a discount was available

I’m not really very satisfied with that offer

 

I’m sure I don’t need to remind you that…

We would find this somewhat difficult to agree to

I’m surprised you would even suggest that

I can’t even consider that

 

Let’s try and find a middle way

I’m willing to be flexible

You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours

I’ll try and meet you halfway

 

 

Under duress…

I might be willing to concede on that point

If you do that, I’ll do what you asked

That seems acceptable

 

I think we’ve found some common ground

I think I can see a way out of this

We could, providing that…

As long as you do your part, I’m willing to consider that

 

I’m going to call your bluff

I think you are asking far too much

That’s my final offer

I’m sorry, but that point is not negotiable

 

That’s a bit high

I’m not sure we can do that

I’m not willing to haggle

I’m going to stand my ground

 

I’ll see what I can do

I’ll think about it

I’ll get back to you on that

That wouldn’t go down well at head office

 

Decide if each section above has phrases to insist on your point of view (I) or phrases to show you are softening your position (S)

Check your answers as a class.

Using your cards, test each other in pairs.

Shuffle and deal the cards between you, then use as many of those phrases as you can while you try to negotiate a pay rise with your boss.

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Business Meetings and Negotiations Insist or Soften position Language- Listen and Respond Cards

Teachers’ instructions- Photocopy and cut out the cards below so each student has one of each.

 

Insist	Soften position	Insist	Soften position
Insist	Soften position	Insist	Soften position
Insist	Soften position	Insist	Soften position
Insist	Soften position	Insist	Soften position
Insist	Soften position	Insist	Soften position
Insist	Soften position	Insist	Soften position
Insist	Soften position	Insist	Soften position

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PDF version for easy saving and printing:  Negotiations Insist Soften Position

Related pages

Negotiating main page

The Simplest Responses Game (TEFLtastic classics Part 20)