Below is a table of some useful expressions which are used when giving advice and suggestions in business correspondence. The expressions are divided according to their level of formality, from informal to formal.
Informal expressions may be used in correspondence between colleagues, while neutral and more formal expressions may be used in any internal correspondence between staff at different levels within the company and in business letters. Neutral language also tends to be used when corresponding with customers.
The expressions also vary in their level of certainty. You should try to select expressions that reflect the level of formality and the level of certainty that you feel.
INFORMAL
Suggestions
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What about Friday at 6 p.m.? Let's meet at 1 outside Puccini's. How about rescheduling the meeting? |
Advice
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If I were you I would accept their offer. You'd better give her the salary rise she's asked for. |
NEUTRAL
Suggestions
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I suggest you get a few more quotes. You could ask Jim for some help. |
Advice
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We ought to think about ways to reduce our costs. You really ought to get professional advice before making a decision. Perhaps it would be a good idea if you were to … I think that we should raise our bid. |
MORE FORMAL
Suggestions
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May I suggest that … I would suggest that I would like to suggest that It is suggested that …. It seems to me that we should ... I would suggest purchasing ….. |
Advice
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I would advise you to ... You are advised to ….. |