EDITOR ’ S PICK
The second way to increase cooperation is by changing your language so that you do not sound coercive , bossy , or controlling . If your words or tone are threatening , you ’ re more likely to activate that instinct and shut down cooperation . However , by inviting cooperation , showing respect , and being a team player , you ’ re much more likely to see results .
Here are 20 phrases to try instead of demands and threats .
• Should we do it the same way or try a new way ?
• I would appreciate your help with this .
• I ’ m open to ideas .
• Would you like to ___ or ___?
• We need a solution for this . Can you think of one ?
• I will tell you my perspective , then I ’ ll listen to yours .
• Thank you for …
• How about we take turns ?
• Let ’ s try this a different way .
• Let ’ s split the work . I ’ ll do this and you do that .
• Can you show me your way ?
• Would you like a hand ?
• Let ’ s try teamworking this !
• When you __, it helps me because ___.
• Let ’ s go for a do-over on this one .
• What ’ s the first step ?
• Where would you like to begin ?
• Let ’ s brainstorm ideas .
• It shows great responsibility when you ___. Thank you !
• Would you like to race / beat the timer ?
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