Remember, if you don't have anything productive to say, don't say anything at all. With the wrong delivery or poor pronunciation of words, people might underestimate you in a work or professional setting.
Photo source by Alinear Indonesia docs. (Unsplash+)
As radio host Bernard Meltzer once said, "Before you speak, ask yourself if what you are about to say is true, good, necessary, and useful. If the answer is no, maybe what you are about to say should not be said." I think this applies in both the workplace and personal or social life.
Therefore, Alinear Indonesia will share some words and phrases that are best avoided in the workplace, with friends, colleagues, and in social settings. Check it out below!
Therefore, Alinear Indonesia will share some words and phrases that are best avoided in the workplace, with friends, colleagues, and in social settings. Check it out below!
Photo source by Alinear Indonesia docs. (Unsplash+)
1. “I Can't”
When you’re unsure about doing something assigned by your boss or someone else, don't immediately say "I can’t." Try to respond with "Okay, I will try," or if you truly cannot do it because it’s beyond your ability or skill, honestly communicate that to your conversation partner.
Photo source by Alinear Indonesia docs. (Unsplash+)
2. “Very”
Using "Very" can sound exaggerated. Instead, use other words like "Skilled," "Smart," "Suitable," etc. Because using "Very" can imply a high level of ability or skill, but overusing it makes your language seem excessive. For example, instead of "Very Tired," say "Tired."
Photo source by Alinear Indonesia docs. (Unsplash+)
3. “That's not my job.”
At work, you might be asked to do tasks outside your priority list or outside of work hours. Sometimes declining is frustrating, but refusing outright may not be the best approach for you or the company.
When this occurs, consider a more constructive response that helps achieve your goal while maintaining professionalism.
When this occurs, consider a more constructive response that helps achieve your goal while maintaining professionalism.
Photo source by Alinear Indonesia docs. (Unsplash+)
4. “I don't have time”
Everyone has the same 24 hours in a day. Telling a coworker, boss, or client you don’t have time can come off as rude and may reflect poorly on your time management skills. Instead, try phrases like: "Can we discuss this after I finish this project?" or “I’m busy today, but let me know when you need it, and I’ll see if I can fit it in."
If your boss’s request exceeds your capacity, it’s helpful to outline your current tasks and ask if some can be deprioritized.
If your boss’s request exceeds your capacity, it’s helpful to outline your current tasks and ask if some can be deprioritized.
Photo source by Alinear Indonesia docs. (Unsplash+)
5. “We should”
This phrase often suggests there’s a delay or issue. “We should” should be used only when referencing a definite, time-bound action.
6. “I don’t know”
Saying "I don’t know" can often be a dead end. Sometimes it indicates a need for honesty. Think about it.
A better approach is to share the information you genuinely know or your perspective.
A better approach is to share the information you genuinely know or your perspective.
Photo source by Alinear Indonesia docs. (Unsplash+)
For example:
"I don't know when the shipment will arrive" can be expanded to, "The shipment is scheduled to arrive on Monday; I will contact the courier for updates and get back to you by the end of the day."
This way, your response is more constructive, less offensive, and easier for your conversation partner to understand. It also considers the context.
This way, your response is more constructive, less offensive, and easier for your conversation partner to understand. It also considers the context.
Conclusion:
Language is essential for cultivating mutual understanding and establishing strong relationships. It's important to be conscious of our word choices and the impact they have on others, as this awareness can significantly elevate our social interactions in both professional and personal settings. Selecting the right words and phrases reveals key insights about a person's character or lifestyle, shaping our perceptions and relationships effectively.
