Small Businesses

These common work phrases actually undermine your credibility

  • 5 min Read
  • December 8, 2021

Author

Escalon

Table of Contents

According to best-selling author and leadership development coach Wendy Capland, entrepreneurs and leaders need to avoid unwittingly undermining their credibility by using what she deems “minimizing language.” This type of language comprises words and phrases that convey uncertainty and self-effacement, even when their intent is to communicate confidence. 


Once you consider the downsides of these common phrases, it becomes much easier to adapt better phrasing. Here, we’ve listed 8 popular phrases to trim from your work vocabulary, so your competence comes through.


  1. Just wanted to thank you / follow up / mention / I’m just

Using the word just inevitably weakens the impact of any statement that follows, according to Caplan, who calls it “a qualifier.” To the listener, it implies that whatever comes after it is not very important. 


When we introduce our questions and ideas with just, the undertone is one of apology. It sounds as if we’re asking for permission to speak or an excuse for potentially disturbing someone.


What to use instead. Instead of trying to be unobtrusive with “just,” use direct statements like: 


  • “I wanted to know.”
  • “I want you to know.”
  • “Checking in to see if you’ve had a chance to review.”
  1. I feel

We often mistakenly use the word feel to communicate an opinion, thought or matter of judgment. But phrasings that being with I feel deliver a subtle message that you are in an emotional state. 


What to use instead. Stick with direct statements such as:


  • “I think.”
  • “I believe.” 
  • “I thought.”

To express a feeling: Use a direct phrase like “I am, as in “I am excited about the project.” Using “I feel excited about the projects” indicates uncertainty.


  1. I’m sorry (to bother you)

It’s good etiquette to apologize when you’ve made a mistake or behaved thoughtlessly. But being sorry for seemingly everything is a sign of insecurity. 


Informing someone that you are about to bother them oddly only increases the chances of you actually bothering them. 


What to use instead. Instead of apologizing, say something like:


  • “I’d like to add.” 
  • “Why don’t we try this.” 
  • “Thank you for waiting or listening.”
  1. In my opinion

Stating your views as an opinion blunts your authority. It’s used by people when they don’t want to seem overbearing. While the intent is honorable, the word weakens the surrounding statement.


The phrase suggests your view is a personal whim or bias rather than a reasoned argument. 


What to use instead. Use a strong phrase like “I believe,” or the reasons behind your stance. 


  1. I’m not sure / I could be wrong

People use I’m not sure to sound humble, but it comes across as: “Don’t listen to me.” 


I could be wrong is another expression that projects weakness and uncertainty. Why should anyone care about the views you are unsure of or could be wrong about? 


These phrases don’t project confidence and are better off axed from your vernacular.


  1. I’m not an expert, but

According to Melody Wilding , executive coach for high achievers and author of “Trust Yourself,” phrases like “I’m not an expert, but…” are harmless prefaces for relaxed brainstorming sessions. 


But if you’re in a situation where you’re trying to get people to respect you and take your ideas seriously, this phrasing undermines your credibility.


What to use instead.  Try a more direct approach, such as:


  • “I’d suggest we consider X” 
  • “I think Y is the best direction.” 
  1. Does that make sense? 

Concluding a statement with a request for validation at the end — Does that make sense? —suggests whatever you said doesn’t make sense to you either. 


What to use instead. If your message seems unclear, say “Let me rephrase that” and start over.


  1. I don’t know

I don’t know should never end of your statement. “If you leave it there and you’re done, it doesn’t make you look good,” says Wendy Capland


Follow I don’t know with what should happen next or a suggestion as to how the other person might find an answer. 


What to use instead: 


  • “I’ll do some research and get back to you.” 
  • “You can refer to this or Mrs. X.” 

More phrases to think twice before using:



Instead of …“When you get a minute.”


Use … “This is a friendly nudge” or “When you have a moment.”


Instead of …  “I was wondering” 


Use … “How about we …?” or “What do you think of X?”


Instead of …  You may already know this but …” 


Use … If you think someone knows what you’re about to say, present the info in a new, forceful way.


Instead of … “Do you mind” or “If that’s okay.” 


Use … If the question is important, ask without the caveat. 


Instead of … “I don’t get it” 


Use … “Help me understand this.”

Talk to our team today to learn how Escalon can help take your company to the next level.

  • Expertise you can trust

    Our team is made up of seasoned professionals who bring years of industry experience to the table. You gain a trusted advisor who understands your business inside out.

  • Quality and consistency

    Say goodbye to the hassles of hiring, training and managing in-house finance teams. You will never have to worry about unexpected leave of absence or retraining new employees.

  • Scalability and Flexibility

    Whether you’re a small business or a global powerhouse, our solutions scale with your needs. We eliminate inefficiencies, reduce costs and help you focus on growing your business.

Contact Us Today!

Tap into the latest insights from experts in your industry

People Management & HR

Benefits Administration, What Small Business Need to Know

Benefits administration can be a game-changer for small businesses aiming to attract and retain top talent. While salaries remain an...

Read More
Accounting & Finance

AAP vs. Cash Accounting: Which Method Is Best for Your Growing Business? 

Choosing the right accounting method can significantly impact how you track financial performance, manage taxes, and plan growth. Two common...

Read More
Accounting & Finance

Beyond Bootstrapping: Advanced Cash Flow Management for Scaling Companies 

Bootstrapping—financing growth through internal cash flow—is a hallmark of many successful startups. But as businesses mature past their initial stage,...

Read More
Technology & Security

Building a Scalable Tech Stack: How to Choose the Right Tools for Growth 

In today’s business landscape, technology is more than a convenience—it’s a strategic asset that can supercharge growth. But as you...

Read More
Accounting & Finance

How to Reduce Month-End Close Time Without Sacrificing Accuracy 

The month-end close can feel like a perpetual scramble—collecting invoices, reconciling accounts, fixing last-minute errors. A drawn-out close not only...

Read More
uncategorized

How to Reduce Overhead Costs Without Impacting Productivity 

Overhead costs—from utilities and rent to administrative staffing—can quietly swell until they erode profit margins and slow your ability to...

Read More
Accounting & Finance

How to Structure Your Finance Team as Your Business Scales

Growth triggers a tidal wave of financial complexity, multi-entity operations, new product lines, overseas expansion, or investor relations. If your...

Read More
Accounting & Finance

M&A Readiness: How to Prepare Your Financials for a Successful Acquisition or Sale 

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) can dramatically alter a company’s trajectory—unlocking new markets, technologies, or customer bases. Yet, many deals stumble...

Read More
Accounting & Finance

Optimizing Working Capital: Strategies to Maximize Liquidity Without Raising Funds 

Working capital: The difference between your current assets and your current liabilities. It’s a key barometer of financial health.  While...

Read More