Want to sound more confident? Avoid these 11 words and phrases that make you look weak
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It is incredibly difficult to compete in a world like this. That’s exactly what many people do. communicate in waysThis makes us less confident and more determined.
However, there is a way to make your message more professional: Replace weak words with phrases that are better suited for you.
These are the top ten things psychologists, linguists and recruiters advise against if you’re looking to rise in your career.
1. Does that make any sense?
Instead, here are some things to think about: “What’s your opinion?” Or “I would like your feedback on this.”
Asking “Does this make sense?” is a good idea. After you have shared a thought you immediately give the impression you aren’t convinced and that your ideas might not be complete.
You should not seek approval. Instead, get feedback from the audience or readers about your ideas.
2. “Maybe …” should be tried”
Instead, here are some things to think about: “Let’s try…” or “It’s a good idea to try…”
Up until the mid-19th century, “maybe” was written as two words — “may” and “be” — which makes it clear that it literally refers to something that might happen, but might not.
It’s a bit wishy-washy if you try to apply this principle to your own thoughts and ideas. You either believe or you don’t.
3. “I believe this would …”
Instead, here are some things to think about: “I believe this would …”
Although it is only a small distinction, this is an important one. “I think” is weaker than “I believed”, and sounds a bit more uncertain, almost as though you are saying something. mayYou’re not certain if you can do it, but work.
The “I believe” statement puts you in control of your thoughts and gives you a sense of calm certainty. You don’t have to be certain of anything, even though you may not feel so.
4. “I’m not positive, but …” or “I’m not sure, but …”
Instead, what should you say?: Anything you wanted to say following the “but”.
It doesn’t matter if you add disclaimers. Similarly, if you start your sentence with “I know this might be a stupid question, but …” or “I don’t want to sound pushy, but …,” you’re undermining yourself.
This is a simple rule you should never forget: Never let yourself down. Never.
5. “I wanted to just touch base …”
Instead, what should you say?:
How many times have you started an email with “Just wanted to ask you if …”? The problem in this case is that the “just” is a softener — almost an apology, as if you’re saying, “I hate to bother you, but …”
While there is a time and place for this, business communication usually doesn’t.
6. “It is unnecessary to mention …”
Instead, what should you say?You are not able to do anything
It’s a line of ironic phrases in which you start a conversation by saying that you won’t say anything, then later you do. Why do you want to?
7. “In my view …”
Instead, what should you say?You are not able to do anything
Let’s get to the point and eliminate the weak intros. Anyone who listens to or reads what you have written is aware that this is your opinion and your belief. Tell them everything you have to!
8. “For what it’s worth …”
Instead, what should you say?You are not able to do anything
It sounds like you don’t know what to say. You don’t have to be convinced by your argument, so why would anyone else?
9. Sorry
Instead, what should you say?The following:
Although it is acceptable to admit to wrongdoing and to accept responsibility, many people end up apologizing and lowering their self-esteem. Why say “Sorry to bother you,” when a simple “Excuse me” is shorter, snappier and less self-deprecating?
Psychologists suggestMany people believe those who say “I’m sorry” too much are weak and incapable of confidence. You might need to be convinced that the term “sorry”, from the 13th Century onwards, used the meaning of “wretched” (or “worthless”).
Another similar one to avoid: “I hate to ask, but …” Just ask!
10.[X]was created to help increase [X]”
Instead, what should you say?: “I developed [X]To increase [X]”
“I developed [X]To increase [X]It uses active voice rather than passive voice to make ” sound more confident.
Passive voice means that the subject does something. It is the act of the subject doing the action. You can use active voice to create a brand new campaign and claim credit.
11. “… “If you don’t get it, I will explain”
Instead, what should you say?You are not able to do anything
Many people have ended sentences with the phrase “if you understand what I mean”, or their near-twin, “know what it means?” Stop being one of these people. It’s a filler phrase that means nothing — and actually irritates a lot of people.
Along the same lines, avoid starting sentences with puffy phrases like “It’s important to note that …” All you’re doing is adding useless words. What do we mean?
Kathy and Ross Petras are the brother-and-sister co-authors of “Awkword Moments,” “You’re Saying It Wrong” and “That Doesn’t Mean What You Think It Means.” Their work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington PostAnd Harvard Business Review. Follow them Twitter @kandrpetras
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