Needs/Benefit Statements
A Needs/Benefit Statement builds on Positive Phrasing by combining a positively-stated suggestion with a benefit that will result if the person follows through on the suggestion. Needs/Benefit statements are a positive, effective way to let someone know what needs to be done, as well as a reason to do it!
The benefit must match the person's agenda to be effective. In other words, it's important for the benefit to be something the participant actually cares about. If it's not important to the participant, then it's not a benefit, and there is no added value to your statement. Without a benefit that matches the listener's agenda, you might as well add "because I said so!"
| Negative Phrasing | Positive Phrasing | Needs/Benefit Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Don't post at the last minute! | Post early in the week! | Posting early in the week will allow others to read and respond to your post. |
| Stop being so negative. | Be positive. | Being positive will make it easier for others to listen and quickly understand what you want them to do. |
| Don't post questions in the Facilitator Forum. | Please post questions in the Questions Forum. | Posting questions in the Questions Forum makes it easier to locate important posts in the Facilitator Forum when necessary. |
There are many opportunities to use Needs/Benefit statements while teaching online. And though NB statements can be tough to compose quickly in a face-to-face encounter, we have the advantage of time when it comes to teaching online. Take the time to consider how best to phrase a post, and Needs/Benefit statements can make a big difference!
You can learn more about Positive Phrasing and powerful Needs/Benefit Statements in the PLS Coaching Skills for Successful Teaching® face-to-face course.