Are you tired of using the same old phrase “please advise” in your emails and conversations? While it may seem like a polite way to ask for someone’s opinion or guidance, it can come across as demanding or even condescending. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives that can convey the same message without sounding rude or bossy.

In this article, we’ll explore 14 polite alternatives to “please advise” that you can use in your daily communication.

“Could You Share Your Thoughts?”

One of the simplest and most polite alternatives to “please advise” is to ask for someone’s thoughts. This phrase shows that you value the other person’s opinion and are genuinely interested in hearing their perspective. It also gives them the freedom to share their thoughts without feeling pressured to give a specific answer.

For example, instead of saying “please advise on the best course of action,” you could say “could you share your thoughts on the best course of action?” This small change in wording can make a big difference in how your message is received.

“What Do You Recommend?”

Another way to ask for advice or guidance without using the phrase “please advise” is to ask for a recommendation. This shows that you trust the other person’s judgment and are open to their suggestions. It also allows them to provide their input without feeling like they are being told what to do.

For instance, instead of saying “please advise on which product to purchase,” you could say “what do you recommend for this situation?” This not only sounds more polite but also invites the other person to share their expertise and knowledge.

“I Would Appreciate Your Input”

Expressing gratitude and appreciation can go a long way in making your request sound more polite. By saying “I would appreciate your input,” you are acknowledging the other person’s time and effort in providing their advice. This phrase also conveys a sense of collaboration and mutual respect.

For example, instead of saying “please advise on how to handle this situation,” you could say “I would appreciate your input on how to handle this situation.” This shows that you value the other person’s opinion and are open to working together to find a solution.

“What Are Your Thoughts on This?”

Similar to asking for someone’s thoughts, this phrase invites the other person to share their perspective without feeling pressured. It also shows that you are open to different ideas and are willing to consider them. This can lead to a more productive and respectful conversation.

For instance, instead of saying “please advise on the best approach,” you could say “what are your thoughts on the best approach?” This allows the other person to share their thoughts without feeling like they are being told what to do.

“Could You Help Me Understand?”

Sometimes, instead of asking for advice or guidance, you may simply need clarification or further explanation. In such cases, using the phrase “could you help me understand” can be a polite way to ask for more information. It shows that you are genuinely interested in learning and are not just looking for a quick answer.

For example, instead of saying “please advise on why this happened,” you could say “could you help me understand why this happened?” This not only sounds more polite but also shows that you are willing to listen and learn.

“What Would You Do in My Situation?”

Asking for someone’s opinion on what they would do in your situation can be a great way to seek advice without sounding demanding. It shows that you value their experience and are open to learning from them. This phrase also allows the other person to share their personal perspective without feeling like they are giving a professional recommendation.

For instance, instead of saying “please advise on how to handle this difficult client,” you could say “what would you do in my situation with this difficult client?” This not only sounds more polite but also allows the other person to share their personal experience and insights.

“I Would Be Grateful for Your Advice”

Similar to expressing appreciation, using the phrase “I would be grateful for your advice” can make your request sound more polite and respectful. It shows that you understand the other person’s time is valuable and that you are grateful for their willingness to help.

For example, instead of saying “please advise on the best way to approach this project,” you could say “I would be grateful for your advice on the best way to approach this project.” This conveys a sense of gratitude and respect, making the other person more likely to provide their input.

“What Do You Suggest I Do?”

This phrase is another way to ask for someone’s recommendation without using the phrase “please advise.” It shows that you value the other person’s opinion and are open to their suggestions. It also allows them to provide their input without feeling like they are being told what to do.

For instance, instead of saying “please advise on how to handle this difficult situation,” you could say “what do you suggest I do in this difficult situation?” This not only sounds more polite but also invites the other person to share their expertise and knowledge.

“Could You Offer Your Expertise?”

If you are seeking advice from someone who is an expert in a particular field, using the phrase “could you offer your expertise” can be a polite way to ask for their guidance. It shows that you recognize their knowledge and are seeking their professional opinion.

For example, instead of saying “please advise on the best marketing strategy,” you could say “could you offer your expertise on the best marketing strategy?” This not only sounds more polite but also shows that you value the other person’s expertise.

“What Would You Recommend I Do?”

Similar to asking for someone’s suggestion, this phrase invites the other person to share their opinion without feeling pressured. It also shows that you are open to different ideas and are willing to consider them. This can lead to a more productive and respectful conversation.

For instance, instead of saying “please advise on the best course of action,” you could say “what would you recommend I do in this situation?” This allows the other person to share their thoughts without feeling like they are being told what to do.

“I Would Be Interested in Your Perspective”

Using the phrase “I would be interested in your perspective” is another way to show that you value the other person’s opinion and are open to hearing their thoughts. It also conveys a sense of collaboration and mutual respect.

For example, instead of saying “please advise on how to handle this difficult decision,” you could say “I would be interested in your perspective on how to handle this difficult decision.” This not only sounds more polite but also shows that you are open to working together to find a solution.

“What Do You Think Is the Best Approach?”

Asking for someone’s opinion on the best approach is another way to seek advice without sounding demanding. It shows that you value their experience and are open to learning from them. This phrase also allows the other person to share their personal perspective without feeling like they are giving a professional recommendation.

For instance, instead of saying “please advise on the best way to handle this project,” you could say “what do you think is the best approach for this project?” This not only sounds more polite but also allows the other person to share their personal experience and insights.

“Could You Provide Your Guidance?”

Lastly, using the phrase “could you provide your guidance” is a polite way to ask for someone’s advice or direction. It shows that you respect their knowledge and are seeking their guidance. This phrase also allows the other person to provide their input without feeling like they are being told what to do.

For example, instead of saying “please advise on how to handle this difficult situation,” you could say “could you provide your guidance on how to handle this difficult situation?” This not only sounds more polite but also shows that you value the other person’s expertise.

11 Formal Ways to Say “It Would Be Greatly Appreciated”

14 Professional Ways to Say “It Was a Pleasure Meeting You”

Conclusion-Alternatives to “Please Advise”

In conclusion, there are plenty of polite alternatives to “please advise” that you can use in your daily communication. By choosing your words carefully, you can convey the same message without sounding rude or demanding. So next time you need someone’s advice or guidance, try using one of these phrases and see the difference it makes in your communication.