Stop using words that sound arrogant at work

It’s good to appear confident and knowledgeable at work, but sometimes we say things that we think emphasize our value as an employee, when in fact we don’t give the impression that we’re exaggerating or lacking confidence. give.

Of course, a lot of it comes down to your tone, context, and specifics. But there are certain phrases that are almost always the wrong choice in a work environment. Here’s what you should know:

Don’t use these arrogant-sounding phrases at work

According to the book’s authors, Kathryn Petras and Ross Petras, “You are wrong” and host NPR Podcast have the same name thin line Between sounding confident at work and sounding arrogant.

with 2011 survey Published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, they compiled a list of phrases that are often considered arrogant. And most of the time should be avoided at work:

1. “I’m not proud, but…” — Okay, then don’t brag.
2. “I already knew that…” (or “Doesn’t everyone know that?”) — Everyone’s life experience is different, so it’s different.
3. “I am sure of it…” — It’s usually better to say you don’t know something than to guess or make up something.
4. “No offense, but…” — Saying that does nothing to soften what comes next.
5. Overuse of “I” (or “me”) — Maybe it’s not just your problem.
6. “Oh, I’m kidding!” — This passive-aggressive method of insulting someone doesn’t give you permission to say what you want.
7. “You may not know…” — Just share the information without any offensive disclaimers.
8. “If I were you, I would….” — Did someone specifically ask you what you would do if you were in that position? If not, omit this phrase.

How to communicate more effectively at work

Instead of using the above phrase, Petras recommend These common approaches to workplace communication:

• Rather than assuming or claiming that you are always right, listen intently to your colleagues and consider their perspectives. Also, don’t interrupt them when they’re talking.
• You think you sound knowledgeable and confident, so stop the habit of speaking just for the sake of speaking. Contributions to the conversation have a greater impact if they’re actually adding something new or useful.
• Ask others about their experiences instead of making everything about you and yours. sThe candy fits the opinion: just because you have it, it don’t mean you should share it.
• Use more inclusive terms like “we” or “our” instead of “me”, “me”, or “mine” to at least sound like a team player.