Understanding the Nuance: 'I am going to take that' vs 'I want to take that'

When it comes to expressing intent to take something, the phrasing can significantly influence the listener's perception and the expected outcome of the interaction. Two common phrases, 'I am going to take that' and 'I want to take that,' while seeming almost identical, actually convey different levels of decisiveness and negotiation. Let's explore the subtle differences and their implications.

The Importance of 'To' in these Phrases

Both sentences convey a desire or intention, but a subtle detail makes a significant difference in their impact. Specifically, adding 'to' in the second sentence makes it grammatically correct and conveys a more nuanced message. For example:

"It is for you to decide." is correct and meaningful. "It is for you decide." is grammatically incorrect and meaningless.

Similarly, whether you use 'it' or 'that' can also affect the clarity of the sentence. 'That' implies a specific situation or item, while 'it' is more general. For example:

"That is for you to decide." - Specifically points to a situation or item. "It is for you decide." - More vague and could be incorrect.

Example Contexts

Using 'That' can make the sentence more direct and specific:

Person A: I don’t know whether to leave my job or not.

Person B: That is for you to decide. I can’t make that decision for you.

In this scenario, 'that' is used because it refers to a specific situation (whether to leave the job).

The Nuance in Customer Interaction

The choice between 'I am going to take that' and 'I want to take that' can influence customer behavior and expectations, especially in retail or exhibition settings. Here is a breakdown of their implications:

I am going to take that

This phrase indicates a high level of confidence and decisiveness. It suggests the customer has already made a decision and is ready to proceed with purchase or action. For instance:

A lady at an exhibition walks in, checks out various pairs of earrings, and says: "I am going to take that." This implies that she is satisfied with the product and its price and intends to make the purchase immediately.

Example: "I am going to take that" conveys: You can expect a smooth and confident transaction, which is generally preferred in business and customer service contexts.

I want to take that

This phrase indicates a strong desire but not an unshakable decision. It suggests that the customer is leaning towards a purchase but is open to negotiation or further consideration. For example:

Another lady at the same exhibition takes her time browsing, tries out a necklace, and seems to take a long time before making a decision. She finally says: "I want to take that." This implies that she is interested in the product but is open to negotiation and may need more convincing or a better deal.

Example: "I want to take that" conveys: There is a willingness to negotiate or seek a better deal. It signals that the customer is not ready to commit fully, and you, the seller, may need to provide additional incentives.

In both cases, the language used can influence the customer’s behavior:

Those who use 'I am going to take that' are more decisive and tend to make purchases quickly without much negotiation. Those who use 'I want to take that' are more open to negotiation and require more persuasion before completing a purchase.

Implications in Business and Customer Service

Understanding these nuances can be crucial for businesses, particularly in retail environments. Here are some strategies based on these phrases:

For Vendors and Salespeople:

1. **Identify the Customer’s Communication Style**: Pay attention to the customer’s use of 'I am going to take that' or 'I want to take that.' This can guide you in whether to provide a quick or detailed quote.

2. **Adjust Your Approach**: If a customer says 'I want to take that,' be prepared to offer discounts, deals, or additional services to close the sale.

3. **Maintain Professionalism**: Regardless of the phrase chosen, maintain a positive and professional demeanor to ensure a smooth transaction.

For Customers:

1. **Be Clear About Your Intentions**: If you are fully committed to a purchase, use 'I am going to take that' to avoid unnecessary back-and-forth.

2. **Signal Openness to Discussion**: If you are open to discussion, use 'I want to take that' to indicate that you are willing to negotiate.

3. **Respect the Seller’s Time and Effort**: Be mindful of the seller's perspective and adjust your communication style accordingly.

By understanding and leveraging the nuances in these phrases, both sellers and customers can improve their interactions and achieve more successful outcomes. Remember, effective communication and intentionality can go a long way in both personal and professional settings.