THE TOOLKIT
No Opinion Givers: Remove The N’T

The “n’t” can make your question come across as confrontational, manipulative, or even condescending. Therefore, in an effort to avoid these perceptions, think about removing the “n’t” and make it a more open and conversational question. For example:

Opinion Giver	Open Question
Can’t it be done by November?	Can it be done by November?
Don’t you think we should include Mary?	Do you think we should include Mary?
Isn’t there a more efficient way to go to market?	Is there a more efficient way to get to market?

When you use opinion givers, you’re saying:

• I think it CAN be done by November.
• I think we SHOULD include Mary.
• I believe there IS a more efficient way.

You’ll get to the same place in your conversation; it’s all a matter of the direction you take.