In this part, we’ll explore phrases that help you steer discussions and keep meetings on track. These phrases are essential for managing time, redirecting conversations, and ensuring productivity during meetings.
🎧 Listen to the full episode on my podcast!
1. “Let’s table this for now.”
What It Means:
This phrase is a polite way to suggest postponing a discussion without dismissing its importance. It helps maintain focus and ensures the meeting stays on track.
When to Use It:
When a topic is taking too much time and needs to be revisited later.
To prioritize other agenda items.
When more information is needed before proceeding.
Tone and Equivalents:
Formal:
“Let’s defer this discussion to a later time.”
“We’ll revisit this topic during our next meeting.”
Semiformal:
“Let’s table this and move on to the next point.”
“We can circle back to this later.”
Casual:
“Let’s put this on hold for now.”
“We’ll come back to this later.”
Example Dialogue:
You: “This is an important discussion, but we’re short on time. Let’s table this for now and revisit it in the next meeting.”
Colleague: “I agree. We’ll need more data to make a final decision anyway.”
You: “Great. I’ll add it to the agenda for Monday’s meeting.”
2. “Let’s circle back to this.”
What It Means:
This phrase is used to temporarily set aside a topic and return to it later. It’s a professional way to handle off-topic discussions or low-priority items.
When to Use It:
When a discussion is valuable but not immediately relevant.
To redirect focus back to the agenda.
To avoid going off track during a time-sensitive meeting.
Tone and Equivalents:
Formal:
“We’ll revisit this topic once we’ve addressed our main agenda.”
“Let’s return to this after completing today’s priorities.”
Semiformal:
“Let’s circle back to this after we finalize the key points.”
“We’ll come back to this once we’ve covered the critical items.”
Casual:
“Let’s get back to this later.”
“We’ll loop back to this in a bit.”
Example Dialogue:
You: “I appreciate your input, but let’s circle back to this after we’ve addressed the timeline for the project.”
Colleague: “That makes sense. The timeline should take priority right now.”
You: “Exactly. Let’s finish this discussion first, and then we can revisit your idea.”
Why These Phrases Work
Both phrases help you steer conversations and maintain control of the meeting agenda without shutting down participants.
“Let’s table this for now” signals prioritization and professionalism.
“Let’s circle back to this” ensures that no important points are lost while keeping the meeting productive.
Action Step
Try using these phrases in your next meeting to:
1. Redirect off-topic conversations with “Let’s circle back to this.”
2. Postpone lengthy discussions with “Let’s table this for now.”
🎧 Listen to the full episode for more examples and tips
Comments
Post a Comment