Negotation at a conference

Negotiation at a Conference: Understanding Subjunctive for Opinions and Recommendations

This lesson focuses on a day at a conference, specifically at La Feria Internacional de Turismo (FITUR) in Madrid, providing a practical context to practice Spanish negotiation skills and interpersonal communication. At the B1 level, you will learn how to use the present subjunctive mood to express opinions and give recommendations, which are essential forms to sound natural and polite during professional and social interactions.

Key Grammar: Present Subjunctive for Opinions and Recommendations

The present subjunctive in Spanish often appears after expressions that convey wishes, doubts, opinions, or recommendations. For example:

• Espero que sea una buena oportunidad para todos. (I hope it is a good opportunity for everyone.)
• Es importante que escuchemos todas las propuestas. (It is important that we listen to all proposals.)
• Te recomiendo que confíes en tu equipo. (I recommend that you trust your team.)

Useful Vocabulary and Expressions

• Una feria – a fair or trade show
• Conferencia – conference
• Negociación – negotiation
• Opinión – opinion
• Recomendación – recommendation
• Es necesario que... – It is necessary that...
• Es mejor que... – It is better that...
• Ojalá que... – Hopefully / I wish that...

Contextual Use in Negotiation

During negotiations at a conference like FITUR, expressing opinions and recommendations diplomatically is important. The subjunctive allows speakers to present their views without sounding too direct or confrontational, which is key in professional settings. Phrases such as "Es importante que consideremos..." (It is important that we consider...) help frame suggestions politely.

Differences and Useful Notes for English Speakers

Unlike English, which often uses modal verbs like "should" or "might" to express recommendations or opinions, Spanish uses the present subjunctive mood triggered by certain expressions and conjunctions. This can feel unfamiliar initially since it affects the verb conjugation itself rather than relying on auxiliary verbs.

Examples:

• English: "I recommend that you arrive early."
  Spanish: "Te recomiendo que llegues temprano." (Notice the subjunctive llegues instead of indicative llegas.)
• English: "It’s important to listen."
  Spanish: "Es importante que escuches."

Learning these patterns will help you express yourself naturally and respectfully in Spanish, especially in formal or professional situations like conferences and business negotiations.