Have you ever been asked for your opinion and you are not sure it is the right time and place to share your opinion? Or maybe you do not have enough information in order to form an opinion and you want to approach it delicately?

Today I would like to address how to withhold your opinion in an elegant manner.

First, always acknowledge the question.

“What an interesting question?”

Try to deflect the question and here are some options.

“I couldn’t say.”

“I’ve never given it much thought.”

You can also deflect by asking a question.

“What is your feeling?”

“Have you ever had to manage something like this before?”

“Have you asked your family about it?”

You can deflect by asking for more time.

“I would love to have some time to think about it and research this point further.”

“I have never been in this position before, I wouldn’t even know what to do but I truly sympatize with your situation.”

You can acknowledge the question and try to change the subject.

“That is a really interesting topic which reminds me I wanted to ask you about…”

You can also be direct.

“That is a great question. I haven’t really thought about it, but it’s an interesting idea. I would love to explore this further and revert back to you, with my opinion. Would that be okay?”

Whichever way you chose make sure it feels right for you and you use your words so it doesn’t seem forced or out of character.

How would you word a deflection to withhold your opinion?

I hope this post is helpful in helping you curate an intentional communication style that is based on mutual respect and confidence in your ability to communicate and have boundaries.

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Stay Elegant,