5 Prompts to Improve Email Tone (Not Just Grammar)

5 Prompts to Improve Email Tone (Not Just Grammar) | Linguo Labs 5 Prompts to Improve Email Tone (Not Just Grammar) Most AI tools can fix spelling and grammar, but tone is what actually makes or breaks professional communication. An email can be grammatically perfect yet come across as rude, pushy, or unprofessional. Learning to use AI to refine tone—not just correctness—is a crucial skill for modern business communication. These five prompts help you leverage AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini to ensure your emails strike the right balance between professional and personable, assertive and respectful, clear and diplomatic. 1. “Make this sound more professional but still warm” “Make this sound more professional but still warm” This prompt helps you avoid sounding robotic or cold while maintaining professionalism. Many people struggle with sounding either too casual or too stiff. This prompt guides AI to find the balance—polishing your language while preserving a friendly, approachable tone. It’s particularly useful for client communication, networking, or any situation where you want to build relationships while remaining professional. Example: “Make this sound more professional but still warm: ‘Hey! Just wanted to check if you got my proposal. Let me know what you think!’” → AI might suggest: “I wanted to follow up on the proposal I sent last week. I’d love to hear your thoughts when you have a moment.” 2. “Rewrite this to sound less pushy” “Rewrite this to sound less pushy” Urgency is important, but sounding demanding or aggressive damages relationships. This prompt helps you communicate needs clearly without coming across as impatient or disrespectful. AI can soften language while maintaining the essential message and urgency. Use this when following up on requests, asking for quick responses, or when you realize your draft might sound too forceful. Example: “Rewrite this to sound less pushy: ‘I need this by tomorrow. No excuses.’” → AI might suggest: “Would it be possible to get this by tomorrow? It’s important for meeting our deadline, but please let me know if you need more time or support to make that work.” 3. “Make this more assertive without being aggressive” “Make this more assertive without being aggressive” Many professionals, especially women and non-native English speakers, struggle with being assertive without seeming aggressive. This prompt helps you state needs, set boundaries, or decline requests clearly and confidently while maintaining respect and professionalism. It’s the opposite of sounding pushy—it’s about claiming your space politely but firmly. Example: “Make this more assertive without being aggressive: ‘I’m not really sure if I can take on more work right now, maybe, if you really need me to…’” → AI might suggest: “I’m currently at capacity with my existing projects. I’d be happy to discuss reprioritizing if this is urgent, or we can plan for this next quarter.” 4. “Adjust this for a more senior audience” “Adjust this for a more senior audience” Communicating with executives, senior leaders, or high-level clients requires a different tone—more direct, more strategic, less detailed. This prompt helps AI remove unnecessary explanations, get to the point faster, and adjust language to match what senior professionals expect. It teaches you to communicate at a more strategic level, which is essential for career advancement. Example: “Adjust this for a more senior audience: ‘Hi! I’ve been working on the project and I ran into some problems. I tried a few different solutions but nothing worked, so I thought I should let you know…’” → AI might suggest: “I’ve identified a blocker on the project that requires a strategic decision. Could we schedule 15 minutes to discuss options?” 5. “Make this clearer and more diplomatic” “Make this clearer and more diplomatic” Sometimes your message needs to be direct but sensitive—delivering bad news, declining a request, or addressing a problem. This prompt helps AI find language that’s honest and clear while being tactful and respectful. It’s essential for difficult conversations where you need to maintain relationships while being truthful. Diplomacy and clarity together create professional communication that solves problems without creating new ones. Example: “Make this clearer and more diplomatic: ‘Your idea won’t work because you didn’t think about the budget and it’s too complicated.’” → AI might suggest: “I appreciate the creative thinking here. I have some concerns about budget feasibility and implementation complexity that we should discuss before moving forward. Can we explore some alternatives?” Test Your Knowledge Question 1: You wrote a client email that sounds too casual. Which AI prompt should you use? Fix my grammar and spelling. Make this sound more professional but still warm. Make this longer and more detailed. Add more technical terms. Question 2: Your follow-up email sounds too demanding. What’s the best prompt to fix the tone? Make this more formal. Check for grammar mistakes. Rewrite this to sound less pushy. Shorten this email. Question 3: You need to decline a request but your draft sounds too apologetic and weak. Which prompt helps? Make this shorter. Make this more assertive without being aggressive. Add more details and explanations. Check the spelling and punctuation. Question 4: You’re emailing the CEO and your message has too much unnecessary detail. What should you ask AI to do? Make it sound friendlier. Fix the grammar. Adjust this for a more senior audience. Add more professional vocabulary. Question 5: You need to give critical feedback but your email sounds harsh. Which prompt balances honesty with tact? Make this sound nicer. Make this clearer and more diplomatic. Remove all negative words. Make it more formal and professional. Next Question Finish Quiz

5 Phrases to Talk About Achievements Without Bragging

5 Phrases to Talk About Achievements Without Bragging | Linguo Labs

5 Ways to Make Your Voice Stand Out in Virtual Meetings

5 Ways to Make Your Voice Stand Out in Virtual Meetings | Linguo Labs 5 Ways to Make Your Voice Stand Out in Virtual Meetings Video call fatigue is real, and it’s easy to seem disconnected or disengaged during virtual meetings—even when you’re paying attention. Without the physical presence and body language cues of in-person meetings, you need to work harder to show you’re actively participating. These five phrases help you demonstrate engagement, contribute meaningfully, and maintain your professional presence on video platforms. They signal to others that you’re present, listening, and adding value to the conversation. 1. “That’s a great point—can I add to that?” “That’s a great point—can I add to that?” This phrase shows you’re actively listening and building on what others have said. By acknowledging someone else’s contribution first (“that’s a great point”), you demonstrate engagement and respect. The question format (“can I add”) is polite and collaborative, making it perfect for virtual meetings where turn-taking can be awkward. It helps combat “Zoom silence” by encouraging dynamic discussion. Example: “That’s a great point about customer retention, Sarah—can I add to that? We’re seeing similar patterns in our European markets as well.” 2. “I’m nodding along here—I completely agree” “I’m nodding along here—I completely agree” On video calls, people can’t always see your body language clearly, especially in large meetings with multiple participants in gallery view. By verbalizing your agreement, you make your engagement explicit. “Nodding along” is a friendly, conversational phrase that acknowledges you’re following the discussion actively. Use this when you agree strongly but don’t have additional points to add—it keeps you present in the conversation without unnecessarily extending the meeting. Example: “I’m nodding along here—I completely agree with the timeline you’ve proposed. It’s realistic and gives us buffer for unexpected issues.” 3. “Just to make sure I’m understanding correctly…” “Just to make sure I’m understanding correctly…” This phrase serves multiple purposes: it shows you’re paying attention, gives you an opportunity to clarify any confusion, and ensures everyone is aligned. In virtual meetings where technical issues or multitasking can cause missed information, checking your understanding demonstrates professionalism. It also invites others to correct or expand, making the conversation more collaborative and reducing miscommunication. Example: “Just to make sure I’m understanding correctly—we’re postponing the product launch from March to April to allow more time for user testing, right?” 4. “I’d love to hear more about…” “I’d love to hear more about…” This phrase demonstrates curiosity and active engagement. It shows you’re not just passively listening but genuinely interested in diving deeper into specific topics. In virtual meetings where energy can lag, expressing interest helps maintain momentum and encourages others to elaborate. It’s particularly effective for showing engagement when you’re not the primary speaker, keeping you visible and involved in the conversation. Example: “I’d love to hear more about the feedback from the pilot group—what were the main concerns they raised?” 5. “Before we wrap up, can I raise one quick point?” “Before we wrap up, can I raise one quick point?” “Wrap up” is a common business idiom meaning to conclude or finish. This phrase is perfect for the end of virtual meetings when you want to contribute something important without appearing to drag the meeting out. By saying “one quick point,” you acknowledge time constraints while ensuring your contribution is heard. It’s especially useful on Zoom where meetings often run right up to the scheduled end time. Example: “Before we wrap up, can I raise one quick point? We should confirm who’s sending the follow-up email to the client so there’s no confusion.” Test Your Knowledge Question 1: You agree with what someone just said but don’t have much to add. What’s the best way to show engagement? *Say nothing and just nod at your camera* I’m nodding along here—I completely agree with the timeline you’ve proposed. OK, sounds good. Next topic? *Unmute and mute without saying anything* Question 2: Someone shares interesting data and you want to understand it better. What should you say? I don’t get it. Can you explain again? Just to make sure I’m understanding correctly—we’re seeing a 15% increase compared to last quarter, right? What does that mean exactly? That’s confusing. Let’s move on. Question 3: You want to build on someone’s idea during a Zoom meeting. Which phrase shows both engagement and collaboration? I have a better idea about this. That’s a great point—can I add to that? We’re seeing similar patterns in our European markets. Let me interrupt for a second. I want to change the subject slightly. Question 4: A colleague mentions something interesting and you want them to elaborate. What’s the most engaging response? OK, thanks for sharing. That’s nice. What’s next on the agenda? I’d love to hear more about the feedback from the pilot group—what were the main concerns? Interesting. Moving on… Question 5: The meeting is ending in 2 minutes and you have something important to mention. What’s the best approach? Wait, everyone stop! I need to say something! Before we wrap up, can I raise one quick point? We should confirm who’s following up with the client. I know we’re out of time, but I have several things to discuss. This will take a while, but it’s important. Next Question Finish Quiz

5 Common English Phrases That Confuse Non-Natives

5 Common English Phrases That Confuse Non-Natives | Linguo Labs 5 Common English Phrases That Confuse Non-Natives Business English is full of idiomatic expressions that sound perfectly natural to native speakers but can be completely baffling to non-native English speakers. These phrases often don’t translate well, and their literal meanings don’t match their actual usage. Understanding these common expressions is essential for effective cross-cultural communication. This guide explains five phrases that frequently cause confusion, helping you understand not just what they mean, but when and how to use them appropriately in professional contexts. 1. “Let’s circle back on this” “Let’s circle back on this” This phrase means “let’s return to discuss this topic later.” It has nothing to do with actual circles or going backward. Native speakers use it to table a discussion without rejecting it, often when time is limited or more information is needed. For non-native speakers, the confusion comes from the spatial metaphor—why “circle” and why “back”? The phrase originates from the idea of circling around to revisit something on your path. Example: “We don’t have time to discuss the marketing budget in detail right now. Let’s circle back on this next week when we have the full financial report.” 2. “I’ll ping you” “I’ll ping you” “Ping” in this context means to send someone a quick message or email, usually through digital channels like Slack, Teams, or email. The term comes from computer networking, where “ping” tests connectivity by sending a signal. Non-native speakers often find this confusing because the literal meaning (making a sound) doesn’t match the actual usage (sending a message). It implies a quick, informal check-in rather than a detailed conversation. Example: “I need to check those numbers with finance first. I’ll ping you this afternoon once I have an answer.” 3. “Can we take this offline?” “Can we take this offline?” This means “let’s discuss this privately or outside of this meeting,” not literally going offline from the internet. It’s used when a topic is too detailed, too sensitive, or only relevant to a few people in the meeting. The confusion arises because “offline” literally means “not connected to the internet,” but in business context, it means “outside of this group setting.” Even in virtual meetings, people say “take it offline” to mean continuing the discussion separately. Example: “This technical issue is specific to your team. Can we take this offline so we don’t use everyone’s time? We can set up a separate call.” 4. “Let’s put a pin in that” “Let’s put a pin in that” This phrase means “let’s pause this discussion and return to it later,” similar to “circle back” but with a slightly different nuance. The imagery comes from pinning something to a board to keep track of it for later. Non-native speakers often find this completely mystifying because pins aren’t involved at all. It suggests the topic is worth discussing but not right now—you’re “pinning” it for future reference rather than forgetting about it. Example: “The website redesign is important, but let’s put a pin in that until we finish the current product launch. We’ll come back to it in Q2.” 5. “I’ll loop you in” “I’ll loop you in” “Loop you in” means to include someone in communication or keep them informed about a project or conversation. The metaphor comes from being inside a “loop” of information rather than outside it. For non-native speakers, the phrase can be confusing because there’s no actual loop involved. It’s commonly used when adding someone to an email thread or including them in updates about something they weren’t originally part of. Example: “Sarah is joining the project next week. I’ll loop you in on an email with all the background information so you’re both up to speed.” Test Your Knowledge Question 1: Your colleague says “Let’s circle back on this next week.” What does this mean? We should go in circles discussing this topic. We’ll return to discuss this topic later, next week. We need to reverse our previous decision. We should walk in a circle while talking. Question 2: Someone says “I’ll ping you this afternoon.” What should you expect? They will make a noise to get your attention. They will send you a quick message or email this afternoon. They will call you on the phone. They will test their internet connection. Question 3: In a meeting, someone suggests “Let’s take this offline.” What do they mean? We should disconnect from the internet to discuss this. We should stop using our computers. We should discuss this privately or outside of this meeting. We should write everything down on paper. Question 4: Your manager says “Let’s put a pin in that for now.” What does this mean? We need to physically pin something to a board. We’ll pause this discussion and return to it later. We should finalize and secure this decision. We need to be more precise about details. Question 5: A colleague says “I’ll loop you in on the project updates.” What will they do? They will create a circular process for the project. They will include you in communications and keep you informed about the project. They will tie you into a commitment. They will show you how to make loops. Next Question Finish Quiz

5 Phrases to Admit a Mistake Like a Professional

5 Phrases to Admit a Mistake Like a Professional | Linguo Labs 5 Phrases to Admit a Mistake Like a Professional Everyone makes mistakes, but how you handle them defines your professionalism and trustworthiness. The worst thing you can do is hide errors, make excuses, or blame others. The best professionals take ownership quickly, communicate clearly, and focus on solutions. These five phrases help you admit mistakes with confidence and integrity, turning potentially damaging situations into opportunities to demonstrate accountability and leadership. Master these expressions to build trust and respect even when things go wrong. 1. “I take full responsibility for…” “I take full responsibility for…” This phrase is direct, honest, and shows complete accountability. By stating you take “full” responsibility, you eliminate any ambiguity about who’s at fault and demonstrate leadership. It stops the blame game before it starts and shows emotional maturity. Use this for significant mistakes where it’s important to own the error completely without deflecting or making excuses. Example: “I take full responsibility for the missed deadline. I underestimated the complexity of the project and should have communicated earlier when I realized we needed more time.” 2. “That was my mistake, and here’s what I’m doing to fix it…” “That was my mistake, and here’s what I’m doing to fix it…” This two-part phrase combines accountability with action. First, you clearly admit fault (“that was my mistake”), then immediately pivot to the solution. This approach shows you’re not just sorry—you’re actively addressing the problem. It demonstrates both integrity and competence, which is crucial for maintaining trust after an error. Always follow this phrase with specific, concrete actions. Example: “That was my mistake—I sent the proposal to the wrong client. Here’s what I’m doing to fix it: I’ve contacted both clients directly, apologized, and resent the correct documents. I’m also implementing a double-check system to prevent this in the future.” 3. “I should have…” “I should have…” This phrase acknowledges what you would do differently with hindsight. It shows self-awareness and a willingness to learn from your mistakes. By identifying specifically what you should have done, you demonstrate that you understand where things went wrong and won’t repeat the error. It’s particularly effective when combined with a commitment to better practices going forward. Example: “I should have flagged the budget concerns during the planning phase instead of waiting until now. Moving forward, I’ll raise potential issues as soon as I identify them.” 4. “You’re right—I dropped the ball on this.” “You’re right—I dropped the ball on this.” “Dropped the ball” is an idiomatic expression meaning you failed to handle something properly or let something fall through the cracks. This phrase is casual yet professional, and it works well because it validates the other person’s concern (“you’re right”) while using a common metaphor that everyone understands. It’s particularly effective when someone has already pointed out your mistake and you need to acknowledge it gracefully. Example: “You’re right—I dropped the ball on this. I didn’t follow up with the vendor like I said I would. I’ll contact them today and make sure we get back on track.” 5. “I apologize for the oversight…” “I apologize for the oversight…” An “oversight” refers to something you failed to notice or consider—it wasn’t intentional, but it’s still your responsibility. This phrase is professional and formal, making it appropriate for client communication or serious workplace situations. By calling it an “oversight,” you’re taking responsibility while also conveying that it was an unintentional error, which can soften the impact without making excuses. Example: “I apologize for the oversight—I failed to include the pricing details in the proposal. I’ll send an updated version within the hour with all the information you need.” Test Your Knowledge Question 1: You missed an important deadline that affected the entire team. How should you communicate this? It wasn’t really my fault—there were too many other priorities. I take full responsibility for the missed deadline. I underestimated the time needed and should have communicated earlier. Everyone else was busy too, so I couldn’t finish on time. The deadline was unrealistic anyway. Question 2: You sent confidential information to the wrong person. What’s the best response? The email addresses looked similar—it was an easy mistake. That was my mistake, and here’s what I’m doing to fix it: I’ve contacted both parties, retrieved the document, and I’m implementing a verification step for sensitive emails. These things happen sometimes in a busy workplace. I was rushing because of the tight deadline. Question 3: A colleague points out that you forgot to follow up on an important client request. How should you respond? I’ve been really busy with other things. You’re right—I dropped the ball on this. I’ll contact the client immediately and make sure they get what they need. I thought someone else was handling that. The client should have reminded me. Question 4: You realize you should have raised a budget concern earlier in the project. What’s the most professional way to acknowledge this? No one asked me about the budget specifically. I should have flagged these budget concerns during planning instead of waiting. Going forward, I’ll raise issues as soon as I identify them. The budget wasn’t clear from the beginning. I assumed everyone else saw this problem too. Question 5: You forgot to include important details in a client proposal. What’s the most professional apology? The template we use doesn’t always capture everything. I apologize for the oversight—I failed to include the pricing details. I’ll send an updated version with all the information within the hour. There was a lot of information to include. Sorry, I must have missed that section. Next Question Finish Quiz

5 Ways to Follow Up Without Sounding Annoying

5 Ways to Follow Up Without Sounding Annoying | Linguo Labs 5 Ways to Follow Up Without Sounding Annoying Following up is essential in business communication, but there’s a fine line between being persistent and being pushy. When done well, follow-ups demonstrate professionalism and reliability. When done poorly, they can damage relationships and your reputation. These five phrases help you check in on unanswered emails, pending decisions, and delayed responses without coming across as impatient, demanding, or annoying. Master these expressions to keep projects moving forward while maintaining positive professional relationships. 1. “Just circling back on this…” “Just circling back on this…” “Circling back” is a common business idiom that means returning to a previous topic or request. The word “just” softens the follow-up, making it feel casual rather than demanding. This phrase works well because it acknowledges that the person is busy and you’re simply bringing the topic back to their attention without blame or pressure. Example: “Just circling back on this—do you have an update on the proposal timeline? I want to make sure we’re aligned before the client meeting next week.” 2. “Wanted to check in on…” “Wanted to check in on…” This phrase is gentle and non-confrontational. “Check in” suggests you’re monitoring progress collaboratively rather than demanding answers. It positions you as someone who’s staying on top of things professionally, not someone who’s frustrated by delays. Use this for routine follow-ups where you don’t need to emphasize urgency. Example: “Wanted to check in on the contract review. Have you had a chance to look at the terms we discussed?” 3. “I know you’re busy, but…” “I know you’re busy, but…” This phrase shows empathy and understanding before making your request. By acknowledging the other person’s workload, you demonstrate emotional intelligence and reduce the chance they’ll feel pressured or criticized. The “but” then allows you to state what you need without sounding demanding. It’s particularly effective when following up with senior colleagues or clients. Example: “I know you’re busy, but I wanted to follow up on the budget approval. We need to finalize this by Friday to stay on schedule.” 4. “Any updates on…?” “Any updates on…?” This simple, direct question is neutral and professional. It doesn’t assume anything about why you haven’t received a response—maybe there’s progress you’re not aware of, or maybe the person genuinely forgot. By asking for updates rather than demanding action, you keep the tone collaborative and give the person space to respond without feeling attacked. Example: “Any updates on the vendor selection? I’d love to know where we stand so I can update the project timeline.” 5. “Moving this to the top of your inbox…” “Moving this to the top of your inbox…” This phrase is clever because it acknowledges email overload—something everyone can relate to. By saying you’re “moving this to the top,” you’re positioning your follow-up as helpful rather than nagging. It’s a polite way to bump your request up in priority without directly saying “this is urgent” or “you forgot about this.” It works especially well for second or third follow-ups. Example: “Moving this to the top of your inbox in case it got buried. Let me know if you need any additional information from our side to move forward.” Test Your Knowledge Question 1: You sent an important email a week ago and haven’t received a response. What’s the most professional follow-up? You never responded to my email. I need an answer now. Just circling back on this—do you have an update on the proposal timeline? Did you see my email? Please respond ASAP. I’m still waiting for your response. Question 2: You need to follow up with a busy senior executive. Which phrase shows the most empathy? You’re taking too long to respond to my emails. I know you’re busy, but I wanted to follow up on the budget approval we need by Friday. Can you please prioritize my request? This is urgent. I need your response immediately. Question 3: This is your third follow-up email on the same topic. What’s the best approach? This is the third time I’m asking. Please respond. Moving this to the top of your inbox in case it got buried. Let me know if you need any additional information. Why haven’t you responded to my previous emails? I’ve emailed you multiple times about this. Question 4: You want a simple status update without seeming pushy. Which phrase works best? Where are we with this project? I need to know. Any updates on the vendor selection? I’d love to know where we stand. You said you’d get back to me. When will that be? I’m waiting on your update to proceed. Question 5: You need to follow up on a contract review that’s slightly behind schedule. What’s the most professional approach? The deadline has passed. Where is the contract review? Wanted to check in on the contract review. Have you had a chance to look at the terms we discussed? This is overdue. I need the contract review now. Can you explain why this is taking so long? Next Question Finish Quiz

5 Ways to Disagree Without Sounding Aggressive

5 Ways to Disagree Without Sounding Aggressive | Linguo Labs 5 Ways to Disagree Without Sounding Aggressive Disagreement is a natural part of workplace communication, but how you express it matters enormously. The ability to challenge ideas respectfully is what separates senior professionals from junior ones. These five phrases help you push back on proposals, question decisions, and offer alternative viewpoints without damaging relationships or coming across as combative. Master these expressions to build a reputation as someone who adds value through thoughtful dissent, not someone who creates unnecessary conflict. 1. “I see your point, but have we considered…” “I see your point, but have we considered…” This phrase acknowledges the other person’s perspective before introducing your concern. The “but” signals disagreement while “have we considered” frames your objection as a collaborative exploration rather than a direct challenge. It invites discussion rather than debate, making it perfect for maintaining positive relationships while raising important questions. Example: “I see your point about moving quickly, but have we considered the potential legal implications of launching before the compliance review is complete?” 2. “I might look at this differently…” “I might look at this differently…” By using “might,” you soften your disagreement and present your view as one possibility among many rather than absolute truth. This humble approach reduces defensiveness and opens space for genuine dialogue. It’s particularly effective when disagreeing with senior colleagues or in cross-cultural contexts where direct confrontation is avoided. Example: “I might look at this differently—if we prioritize customer feedback over cost savings in the short term, we could build stronger loyalty that pays off long-term.” 3. “What if we approached it from another angle?” “What if we approached it from another angle?” This question-based approach positions disagreement as creative problem-solving rather than opposition. You’re not saying someone is wrong; you’re suggesting there might be better alternatives worth exploring. The phrase “another angle” keeps the focus on the problem, not on whose idea is better, making it collaborative rather than competitive. Example: “What if we approached it from another angle? Instead of cutting the marketing budget, we could reallocate funds from less effective channels to high-performing ones.” 4. “I have some concerns about…” “I have some concerns about…” This direct but diplomatic phrase clearly signals disagreement while keeping the focus on specific issues rather than personalities. “Concerns” is less confrontational than “problems” or “issues,” and by stating what you’re concerned about, you invite others to address those concerns rather than defend their position. It’s professional, clear, and non-aggressive. Example: “I have some concerns about the timeline—based on similar projects, three months might not be enough to deliver quality results.” 5. “Can we discuss the risks involved?” “Can we discuss the risks involved?” This question reframes disagreement as risk management, which is always part of professional responsibility. By asking to discuss risks rather than stating you disagree, you position yourself as thoughtful and cautious rather than negative or obstructive. It’s particularly effective when you’re concerned about a decision but want to raise those concerns without seeming like you’re blocking progress. Example: “Can we discuss the risks involved? If we promise this feature to clients before development confirms feasibility, we could damage trust if we can’t deliver.” Test Your Knowledge Question 1: Your manager proposes an aggressive deadline. You think it’s unrealistic. What’s the most diplomatic way to disagree? That timeline is impossible. It won’t work. I have some concerns about the timeline—based on similar projects, we might need more time to deliver quality results. We’ve tried this before and it always fails. You’re not being realistic about what’s achievable. Question 2: A colleague suggests a strategy you think has significant risks. How should you respond? That’s a terrible idea. We shouldn’t do that. You clearly haven’t thought this through. Can we discuss the risks involved? I’m concerned about how this might impact customer trust. No, we’re not doing it that way. Question 3: You disagree with a senior leader’s approach but want to suggest an alternative. What’s the best phrase? What if we approached it from another angle? We could prioritize customer feedback first. I think your approach is wrong. We should do it my way. That won’t work. Here’s what we need to do instead. Everyone disagrees with this plan. Question 4: You want to challenge an assumption in the discussion without creating conflict. Which phrase works best? You’re making incorrect assumptions here. I see your point, but have we considered what happens if market conditions change? That assumption doesn’t make any sense. You’re wrong about that. Question 5: In a cross-cultural meeting, you disagree with a proposal. What’s the most respectful way to express it? I completely disagree with that approach. I might look at this differently—perhaps we could focus on long-term customer loyalty rather than immediate cost savings. That strategy won’t work in our market. We’ve never done it that way before. Next Question Finish Quiz

5 Ways to Interrupt Politely (and Be Heard)

5 Ways to Interrupt Politely (and Be Heard) | Linguo Labs 5 Ways to Interrupt Politely (and Be Heard) In fast-paced meetings, knowing when and how to interrupt can make the difference between being overlooked and being heard. But interrupting the wrong way can damage relationships and your professional reputation. The key is to interrupt with respect and clarity. These five phrases help you jump into the conversation without coming across as rude or aggressive, ensuring your voice is heard while maintaining positive dynamics with colleagues and clients. 1. “Sorry to jump in here, but…” “Sorry to jump in here, but…” This phrase acknowledges that you’re interrupting while signaling that what you have to say is relevant and important. It’s polite yet assertive, making it perfect for meetings where multiple people are speaking. The apology softens the interruption while “jump in” conveys urgency and relevance. Example: “Sorry to jump in here, but I think we need to consider the budget implications before we move forward with this plan.” 2. “Can I add something quickly?” “Can I add something quickly?” This question-based approach is less direct than a statement, making it feel collaborative rather than confrontational. By asking permission and promising brevity (“quickly”), you show respect for others’ time while still asserting your need to contribute. It works especially well in hierarchical or formal settings. Example: “Can I add something quickly? The client mentioned this exact concern in our last call, and I think it’s worth addressing now.” 3. “Just to build on that point…” “Just to build on that point…” This phrase shows you’ve been listening actively and want to add value to what’s already been said. It frames your interruption as collaborative rather than contradictory, which helps maintain group harmony. Use this when you agree with what’s being discussed but want to expand on it or add a new angle. Example: “Just to build on that point, we could also apply this same strategy to our European markets with minimal adjustments.” 4. “Before we move on, I’d like to mention…” “Before we move on, I’d like to mention…” This phrase creates a sense of urgency without being aggressive. It signals that the conversation is about to shift topics and you have something important to contribute before that happens. It’s particularly useful when discussions are moving too quickly and you’re worried your point will become irrelevant if you wait. Example: “Before we move on, I’d like to mention that our legal team flagged some potential issues with this approach that we should review.” 5. “If I could just clarify something…” “If I could just clarify something…” This phrase positions your interruption as helpful and necessary for understanding, rather than self-serving. It suggests there might be confusion or miscommunication that needs to be addressed. Use this when you notice the conversation is based on incomplete or incorrect information, or when you need to ensure everyone is on the same page. Example: “If I could just clarify something—the deadline we’re discussing is actually next Friday, not this Friday, which gives us a bit more time.” Test Your Knowledge Question 1: You’re in a meeting and the discussion is moving to the next topic, but you have important information about the current topic. What should you say? Before we move on, I’d like to mention that our legal team has concerns about this. Wait! Stop! I need to say something! You’re forgetting something important here. Hold on, let me talk now. Question 2: Your colleague is explaining a concept, and you want to add related information. Which phrase is most collaborative? Actually, I have a better point about this. Just to build on that point, we could also consider the international implications. Let me interrupt you there. That’s interesting, but what I think is more important is… Question 3: You notice people are discussing something based on incorrect information. What’s the best way to interrupt? That’s wrong. The deadline is different. Sorry, but you’re all confused about the dates. If I could just clarify something—the deadline is actually next Friday, not this Friday. Everyone needs to stop. You have the wrong information. Question 4: You have a brief but important point to make during an active discussion. Which phrase shows respect for others’ time? I need everyone to listen to me for a moment. Can I add something quickly? This directly relates to what we’re discussing. Excuse me, I have something more important to say. This is urgent. Everyone stop talking. Question 5: You need to interrupt during a heated discussion without escalating tension. What’s the best approach? Everyone is missing the point here. Sorry to jump in here, but I think we need to consider the client’s perspective on this. Can someone please listen to me for once? You’re all wrong about this. Next Question Finish Quiz

Craig Nagels: Director of Global Growth & Business Development

Connecting Strategy and Communication: My Role in Global Growth at Linguo Language Labs Connecting Strategy and Communication: My Role in Global Growth at Linguo Language Labs Building partnerships that drive meaningful, sustainable impact Hi, I’m Craig Nagels, and I’m proud to serve as Director of Global Growth and Business Development at Linguo Language Labs. With over 30 years of experience in sales and more than 20 years in education, my career has always been rooted at the intersection of business strategy and learning. I’ve worked with organizations across industries to develop solutions that don’t just meet business goals, but also support the people behind them. What I’ve learned over the years is simple: growth works best when it’s built on trust, clarity, and long-term relationships. In language education, success comes from understanding both corporate objectives and the human experience of learning. That balance is what guides my work at Linguo. At Linguo Language Labs, I partner with organizations to understand their teams, challenges, and communication goals. My role focuses on identifying opportunities, building strong partnerships, and ensuring our programs are strategic, scalable, and learner-centered. Just as importantly, I work closely with our clients to ensure they feel supported long after a program begins. What excites me most about Linguo is our commitment to doing business differently. We believe growth should be ethical, sustainable, and rooted in real value — not quick wins. Our programs are designed to support learners, respect teachers, and deliver measurable results for organizations operating in a global environment. My background in education allows me to see beyond numbers and metrics. I understand how learning creates confidence, how communication shapes careers, and why long-term impact matters more than short-term gains. Combined with my experience in global sales and business development, this perspective helps ensure every partnership we build is thoughtful, aligned, and built to last. As Director of Global Growth and Business Development, my goal is to help organizations see language as a strategic advantage — a tool for connection, collaboration, and global success. I’m excited to work with forward-thinking companies that value clear communication, ethical growth, and meaningful partnerships. At Linguo Language Labs, we’re building relationships that grow with purpose — and I’m proud to be part of that journey. Craig Nagels Director of Global Growth and Business Development Ready to Build a Partnership? Let’s discuss how Linguo Language Labs can support your organization’s communication goals and global growth. Get in Touch

Andjela Kanacki: Director of Talent Acquisition

Trust, Talent, and the Future of Language Education How valuing teachers transforms language education Stepping into the role of Director of Talent Acquisition is more than a career move for me — it’s the realization of everything I’ve been working toward as an educator and professional. It brings together my experience in the classroom, my work with corporate clients, and my belief that language education should always be ethical, empowering, and human. I’ve been teaching Swedish for over seven years, supported by a degree in Swedish Language and Literature from the University of Belgrade. Throughout that time, I’ve explored different teaching approaches, completed extensive training, and worked with learners across a wide range of contexts. One lesson has remained constant: trust matters as much as grammar. When learners feel supported and understood, their confidence grows — and confidence is what drives real progress. My work with corporate clients added another important dimension to this understanding. Through countless conversations, I saw how closely language learning is tied to professional life — the pressure to communicate clearly, the importance of confidence in high-stakes situations, and the role language plays in shaping careers. These experiences reinforced something I strongly believe: teaching is not just about language. It’s about helping people thrive in their work and in their world. “When learners feel supported and understood, their confidence grows — and confidence is what drives real progress.” Now, as Director of Talent Acquisition at Linguo Language Labs, I bring these perspectives together. My teaching background allows me to recognize what makes learning effective and meaningful, while my corporate experience helps me understand what clients truly need from their educators. In this role, my focus is on: Recruiting teachers who are not only highly skilled, but also trusted, respected, and aligned with our values Creating an environment where educators are fairly compensated, supported, and empowered to do their best work Building a culture of ethical teaching and high-impact learning experiences that deliver real, lasting results What excites me most about Linguo Language Labs is the shared belief that teachers are our most valuable asset. When educators feel valued, safe, and supported, they bring their best selves to the classroom. And when teachers thrive, learners succeed — creating stronger outcomes for individuals, teams, and organizations alike. The future of language education depends on how we treat the people who make learning possible. By putting trust, talent, and ethics at the center of what we do, we are shaping a more sustainable, human-centered approach to language learning. I’m excited to contribute to this vision and to work alongside educators and leaders who believe that valuing teachers isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s the key to transforming language education. Andjela Director of Talent Acquisition, Linguo Language Labs Ready to Experience the Difference? Discover how our teacher-first approach creates better learning outcomes for you or your team. Get in Touch