#1 Expressions for Buying Concert Tickets｜English Conversation Phrases
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#51 Asking a Colleague for Advice｜English Business Phrases
Izumi
In the workplace, it is common to ask a colleague for their opinion, share concerns, or seek advice as you move forward with your tasks.
When approaching someone for advice in English, it is important to show respect for their time and to present your question clearly.
In this article, I introduce useful expressions for naturally starting a consultation, explaining your concerns, and receiving advice in a professional environment.
Contents
Dialogue
Hi, do you have a minute? I need your advice on something.
Sure, what’s going on?
I’m working on the proposal for next week’s meeting, but I’m not sure about the structure.
I see. Do you want me to take a quick look at it?
Yes, that would be really helpful. I want to make sure the main points are clear.
No problem. Send it to me, and I’ll give you some feedback.
Thanks a lot. I really appreciate your help.
1. Polite Ways to Start a Conversation
When approaching a colleague, it is best to begin by checking whether they have a moment to talk.
- Do you have a minute?
This expression shows respect for the other person’s time, which makes it widely used in business situations.
Other similar expressions include:
- Do you have a second?
- Can I ask you something?
- Is now a good time?
Each phrase has a slightly different nuance, allowing you to choose one that best fits the situation.
“Do you have a minute?” implies the matter is not too time-consuming, making it suitable for light consultations.
2. Explaining Your Issue Briefly
A common mistake when seeking advice is giving a long, detailed explanation.
To avoid this, keep your message concise by stating what you are working on and what part you are struggling with.
- I’m working on the proposal for next week’s meeting.
“I’m working on ～” is a versatile phrase useful for describing ongoing tasks:
- I’m working on a presentation.
- I’m working on a new design.
- I’m working on the budget plan.
After stating the task, explain your concern:
- …but I’m not sure about the structure.
“not sure about ～” is a polite expression that sounds more professional than “don’t know.”
3. Offering Assistance
When a colleague is willing to help, the following expressions are often used:
- Do you want me to take a quick look at it?
“A quick look” implies offering help without requiring much time, making it sound considerate.
Other similar expressions include:
- I can check it for you if you’d like.
- I can give you some quick feedback.
- Do you want me to review it?
Words like “quick” or “some” help soften the offer, showing that the support is light and not burdensome.
4. Stating the Purpose of Your Consultation
To receive more accurate advice, clearly express what you want to confirm.
- I want to make sure the main points are clear.
“I want to make sure ～” politely conveys your objective:
- I want to make sure the explanation is easy to follow.
- I want to make sure the numbers are correct.
- I want to make sure the tone is appropriate.
This helps your colleague understand exactly what to focus on.
Summary
- Do you have a minute?
→ A common way to politely approach a colleague for advice. - I need your advice on ～.
→ A concise expression to state the purpose of your consultation. - Do you want me to take a quick look?
→ A gentle way to offer assistance without sounding burdensome. - I want to make sure ～.
→ An effective phrase to clearly state what you want to confirm.
