Thanks, Morris. This is fascinating analysis.
Here is my situation. I came as an engineer (think - Dilbert) along with
the project manager (mid-to-high management, also non-native speaker,
but probably more experienced in this specific kind of verbal kung-fu)
and worked with both my parallels (system operator and IT person of the
company we visited) and also lower-mid managers and some higher ranked
boss whose true rank I fail to comprehend. My lame excuse was that in
fact I was rather occupied all the time with the technical situation and
simply said what I meant - that I suggest that in order to solve the
problem they have they do this and don't do that. I indicated that they
could do otherwise, but that we would advise them to stick to our
suggestion as we think it is the optimal course of action at the moment.
I specifically indicated that this was a temporary measure for the
duration of their more important work. At then of this period (whose
duration was given explicitly) they could return to their normal procedures.
As to what others suggested - due to my accent, it is rather difficult
for me to both keep my speaking clear and understandable and also spice
it with intonation and intent.
In fact, if AnnSan, Cotty, Bob W, Mike Wilson or Jostein would chime in
here - it would be cool - they spoke to me in person. I also spoke on
the phone with Rob, Bill Robb and Bob S.
Surely next time I will be more deliberate about my wording. At least I
would try to use more neutral variations so as to at least remove any
possibility of imperativeness when talking to customers. In principle I
should lay in front of them a number of options and they should make
their choice how to proceed.
It is good to be a PDMLer even if one's native language is not English :-).
Thanks a whole lot!
Boris
On 2/1/2010 5:10 PM, Morris Galloway wrote:
"I suggest" versus "Perhaps we could proceed...."
One American's analysis.
Among general professionals in the central U.S.
If Boris Liberman is in upper management speaking to those in middle
management, then "I suggest" would have 10% more of the Imperative.
Among peers it would be perceived as an option awaiting the opportunity
for other options to be presented.
If used by middle management to upper management it might be considered
brash or bold.
Among Lawyers it would simply be considered as an option. But then we
are a rather thick-skinned profession.
Wow! Perhaps English is becoming a language similar to Diplomatic
French. Zut Alors!
Galloway.
"I suggest" might have 10% more
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