Discover the eight phrases that could be undermining your professional image. Uncover the subtle language pitfalls that may be projecting weakness in the workplace, and learn how to navigate your communication for a stronger, more confident persona.
Actions speak louder than words, but our words still hold tremendous power
Be conscious of the phrases other people say that diminish their authority and make a point to not say them yourself
- Context is everything
- If your goal is to have your voice heard and your ideas respected, cruise over the phrases below and consider a re-word or eliminate them entirely
“I’m an idiot”
Most effective leaders are tremendous simplifiers
- Don’t over-explain or bog down people with details
- Instead, state the facts and list action points
- “Sorry, I’m stupid” is a forward-thinking way to show that you accept your mistakes
“I’m not an expert, but…”
If you’re trying to get people to respect you and take your ideas seriously, these phrases undermine your credibility
- Take a more direct and less self-deprecating approach
- “What I believe is the best direction is X” or “I would suggest we also consider Y.”
“I’m sorry to bother you…”
Saying sorry makes us appear smaller and timider than we really are.
- Thank you for listening instead
- This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t apologize, but limit how much you say you’re sorry when there’s nothing for you to be sorry about.
“It’s just that….”
Weak objections tend to get overruled and send a signal that you’re not willing to take a stand
- Marina Glazman
- “The client said they don’t like plastic, what about glass?” is more effective than “The only thing is…”
Does what I just said make sense?”
If you feel as if you’re rambling and your message isn’t landing, stop and start again.
- You can even use self-deprecating humor – “If I’m confused saying this you must be lost trying to understand it. Are you up for helping me hash it out?”
“I don’t necessarily agree with this, but…”
One of the major keys to advancement is found in how well you and your colleagues thoughtfully disagree
- Be mindful of how you start your requests or argument
- It plays a role in how confidently your thoughts and ideas are ultimately received
“Just”
For one week, before hitting send on every email you write, do a “cntrl+F” and type the word “just” into the search bar.
- This simple act will help you to be more conscious of how much you write it and serve as a silent reminder to use it sparingly in conversation.
“When you get a minute…”
Direct reminders get a fire under you faster than dancing ones. When you need an update, drop the “This is just a friendly nudge…” and ask for what you want.
- “Can you give me an update on the request I sent over on Monday?”
