7 Professional Ways to Make Counter-Proposals in Business English

Making Counter-Proposals in Business English

Last week, we explored how to accept offers and proposals professionally. However, in business negotiations, we often need to suggest alternatives or modifications to an original proposal. This week, let's look at effective ways to make counter-proposals while maintaining positive professional relationships.

What is a Counter-Proposal?

A counter-proposal is when you respond to someone's proposal with an alternative suggestion. It's a crucial skill in business negotiations that allows you to:

• Suggest modifications to original terms

• Offer alternative solutions

• Find middle ground in negotiations

• Maintain professional relationships while disagreeing

7 Professional Ways to Make Counter-Proposals

1. "While I appreciate your proposal, what if we..."

This phrase acknowledges the original idea before suggesting an alternative.

2. "We'd like to suggest an alternative..."

A direct but polite way to introduce your counter-proposal.

3. "Could we explore the possibility of..."

This gentle phrase presents your counter-proposal as an exploration rather than a demand.

4. "What are your thoughts on..."

This collaborative approach invites discussion about your alternative suggestion.

5. "Have you considered..."

A tactful way to introduce an alternative that might have been overlooked.

6. "Another approach might be..."

This phrase suggests alternatives without dismissing the original proposal.

7. "Would you be open to..."

A respectful way to suggest changes that show flexibility. This is one that I used regularly in my motorsport business.

Tips for Effective Counter-Proposals

1. Start Positively: Acknowledge the original proposal's merits

2. Be Specific: Clearly outline your alternative suggestion

3. Explain Why: Provide brief reasoning for your counter-proposal

4. Stay Flexible: Show willingness to discuss and adjust

5. Maintain Professionalism: Keep language polite and constructive

Cultural Considerations

Remember that different cultures may have varying approaches to negotiations:

• Some prefer direct counter-proposals

• Others appreciate more subtle suggestions

• Always consider your audience's cultural background

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don't dismiss the original proposal entirely

• Avoid using negative language like "impossible" or "unrealistic"

• Don't make counter-proposals without clear justification

• Avoid taking too long to respond

Key Takeaways

• Counter-proposals are a normal part of business negotiations

• Always maintain a constructive, positive tone

• Offer clear alternatives with specific details

• Show flexibility and willingness to discuss further

A Jewel on the French Riviera: Le Negresco Hotel

Greetings from the not-so-sunny South of France! I'm writing to you from Nice, where I have the privilege of staying at the truly magnificent Le Negresco Hotel. What makes this place so special? The answer lies not just in its luxurious rooms or prime location, but in the vision of its former owner, Madame Jeanne Augier.

More Than Just a Hotel

Imagine a hotel run like a museum or art gallery. That's exactly how Madame Augier approached Le Negresco. Her father purchased the hotel in 1957, but it was under Jeanne's care that it became a cultural landmark.

Madame Augier's Legacy

Jeanne Augier wasn't your typical hotel owner. She saw Le Negresco as a canvas for showcasing French art and history. Under her guidance, the hotel became home to an impressive collection of art spanning five centuries. Each floor of the hotel and, indeed each room, is unique. No two rooms are the same.

Standing Firm Against Corporate Takeovers

In my view what truly sets Le Negresco apart is its independence. Madame Augier received numerous offers to sell the hotel, including one from Microsoft founder Bill Gates. Admirably and unusually, she refused them all. While many independent hotels were taken over by corporate giants, her decision ensured that Le Negresco remained a unique establishment.

Preserving a Vision for the Future

Today, Le Negresco is run by a foundation established to maintain the core principles that Madame Augier held dear. This arrangement ensures that the hotel will continue to operate as an independent cultural treasure, rather than becoming part of a large hotel group.

The Negresco Today

Le Negresco stands as a testament to Madame Augier's vision and determination. It's not just a place to sleep; it's a living museum, a piece of French heritage, and a world-renowned luxury destination that has managed to retain its unique character in an era of global hotel chains.

How might applying a unique vision, like Madame Augier's, set your business apart in your industry?

Next week, I will tell you why this story about Madame Augier reminds me of the story of the Mexican fisherman and the American tourist.

Word of the Day: Deadline

Deadline - noun - a time or day by which something must be done

Common expressions and uses:

Do you have any Business English Questions?

Please email me and I will do my best to answer them in future newsletters.

Until next Wednesday - have a great week!

Iain.

www.communicateenglish.com