Each of these tips comes from real challenges faced by professionals around the world — people just like you who are working across cultures, time zones, and languages.
#16. Use “I’d like to” and “Would you mind” for Polite Requests
Sanjay from Bangalore used to write emails like:
“Send me the files today.”
While technically correct, the tone felt abrupt. He learned to say:
“I’d like to request the files by today, if possible.”
Or:
“Would you mind sending the updated version by 3 PM?”
🔑 Tip: In Business English, politeness adds professionalism. Use:
- “I’d like to suggest…”
- “Would you be able to…?”
- “Could you kindly…”
#17. Clarify Numbers and Dates Out Loud
During a virtual meeting, Laila from Istanbul said the deadline was “6/7.” Her UK teammates assumed June 7, while she meant July 6. The project was delayed because of this common misunderstanding.
🔑 Tip: When discussing dates or numbers, clarify like this:
- “That’s July 6th — 6 July.”
- “The budget is 15 thousand, one-five-zero-zero-zero.”
Small adjustments = big clarity in international settings.
#18. Learn the Language of Diplomacy in Emails
Ali from Amman wanted to reject a vendor proposal but didn’t want to sound harsh. He learned to use “diplomatic refusal” phrases like:
“Thank you for your proposal. At this time, we’ll be going in a different direction.”
Or:
“We appreciate your input, but we’ve decided to proceed with another option.”
🔑 Tip: For turning down offers or ideas, use:
- “We’ve decided not to move forward.”
- “Unfortunately, we’ll have to decline at this stage.”
- “This doesn’t align with our current priorities.”
#19. Acknowledge Before You Answer
Liang, a financial analyst in Singapore, used to jump into answers quickly. After coaching, he began starting responses with:
“That’s a great question.”
“I understand your concern.”
“Let me explain our approach.”
It made him sound more thoughtful and confident.
🔑 Tip: Acknowledge the other speaker before jumping to your point. It buys you thinking time and builds connection.
#20. Practice Saying “I don’t understand” Clearly and Confidently
Too many professionals pretend to understand to avoid embarrassment. But misunderstanding can cost time, money, and reputation.
Fatou from Senegal once missed a project scope change because she stayed silent. Now, she confidently says:
“I’m sorry, I didn’t catch that. Could you repeat it?”
“Can you explain that in a different way?”
🔑 Tip: Clarity beats pride. Use phrases like:
- “Can we go over that again?”
- “I’m not familiar with that term — could you explain?”
Final Thought: Fluency Is About Clarity, Not Perfection
Business English fluency isn’t about using big words or perfect grammar. It’s about knowing how to say the right thing, at the right time, in the right way.
Keep practicing. Keep improving. And remember — every clear message you deliver builds your credibility and career.
📌 Missed Part One?
Check out ESL Business English Tips #6–15 on the StoryHaven blog.
🌐 5 More Business English Tips for Global Professionals (Tips #16–20)
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