Decision-Making in English

Decision-Making in English

If you’re a German executive or team leader working internationally, chances are… you’re regularly involved in making decisions in English.

Today, I want to give you a few practical tips—and useful phrases—for handling those conversations with clarity, diplomacy, and confidence.

Let’s jump in.

In many German-speaking business cultures, we value clarity, logic, and direct decisions. That’s great—and often admired internationally.

But when you’re making decisions in English—especially with colleagues from different cultures—how you express your ideas becomes just as important as what you decide.

Let me walk you through five essential communication moves—and how to say them naturally in English.

Key Communication Moves

✅ 1. Suggesting something diplomatically
In German, we might be quite direct: „Ich schlage vor, wir machen A.“
In English, softening the suggestion helps create openness. Try:

• “How about we…?”
• “We could consider…”
• Or: “Let’s try…” 

For example:
“How about we launch the product in Q3 instead?”

✅ 2. Agreeing professionally
Instead of just saying “yes,” use phrases that show alignment and professionalism.
Try:

• “That sounds reasonable.”
• “I’m fine with that.”

•  Or: “Absolutely, I agree.” 

You’ll sound more natural and executive-level.

✅ 3. Disagreeing—without sounding too direct
This one’s important! Germans are often appreciated for honesty—but in English, a softer delivery goes a long way.
Say:

• “I see your point, but…”
• “I’m not sure that’s the best option.”

•  Or: “I have a different view on that.”

This allows you to disagree without creating tension.

✅ 4. Clarifying to avoid misunderstandings
Don’t guess—ask!
In international teams, it’s smart to clarify, especially when the stakes are high.
Use:

• “Could you explain that in more detail?”
• “Do you mean that…?”

• “Just to clarify – are you saying…?

It shows professionalism and helps everyone stay on the same page.

✅ 5. Weighing options together
This is where Germans usually shine—structured thinking!
Use English phrases like:

• “Let’s weigh the pros and cons.”
• “What risks do you see?”

• “What’s the potential benefit of each option?

These phrases help you structure the discussion and show leadership.

[Closing – summary and encouragement]

So—decision-making in English isn’t just about choosing A or B. It’s about how you navigate the discussion with language that’s clear, collaborative, and confident.

Try using some of these phrases in your next meeting—and see how your impact grows.

If you’d like to practice these situations live, our avatar Alex is ready to simulate real-life decision conversations with you.

Thanks for watching—and as always: speak globally, lead confidently.