15 Common Phrases That Can Make You Seem Less Competent at Work

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In a professional setting, the choice of words may positively or negatively impact perceptions. We are led to believe that we are being simple or humble or trying to make ourselves easily accessible in some way when, in reality, we aren’t. Specific phrases may lower the competency perception and question the confidence of a specialist despite the professional performance. Here are some common phrases to remember and never use to show confidence and capability.

“I’ll Try My Best”

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Though this sounds reassuring, it seems to be quite the opposite; it may sound like a way of expressing the inability to be sure about delivery. When you say, “I’ll try,” it appears you are getting ready to fail, which is not the best thing when building trust. Rather than say, for example, “I’ll do this” or “I will get to this,” as these make you sound more committed to getting the task done.

“I Think…”

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One of the things that can cause you to lose your credibility is when you start a statement with, “I think,” making it seem like you’re unsure of your thoughts. Of course, using this phrase even when you are entirely sure about your position makes an opinion seem less assertive. Instead of citing your opinion with “I think,” just say, “I agree/disagree with this argument because…,” or “In my experience, I have seen…,” to reflect your knowledge more assertively.

“Just Following Up…”

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As most of us are familiar with the phrase, “Just following up,” it comes off as insincerely apologetic or even weak. The word “just” underplays your request and can diminish your authority. A much better way to continue is by saying, “I wanted to check on…” which is crude and to the point but still polite and presents your message straightforwardly and respectfully.

“Sorry To Bother You”

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Using phrases like “Sorry to trouble you” can imply that your request is inconvenient and you don’t believe that your request is important enough. In a business context, your questions or requests are often expected to be part of the job and production process. Instead, replace this phrase with “When you have a moment” or “Could we discuss this?” to be polite without diminishing your request.

“Does That Make Sense?”

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Saying, “Does that make sense?”‘ might sound like you are being kind, but you are doubting your clarity or logic. More often than not, it might imply that there is doubt that all the relevant messages have been passed on appropriately, which may reflect poorly on your expertise. So, instead of saying the phrase that seems to imply that the clarification has failed to cover all the points well, say, “If you have any questions, feel free to ask,” which is a more polite way of encouraging a follow-up.

“Hopefully, This Works”

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Using “Hopefully” may indicate that you lack confidence in your plan or methodology, potentially raise doubts in your colleagues’ minds, and are also unproductive. Yet the safer strategy when dealing with unknowns is to be positive and say something like, “Let’s try this and see how it develops” or “I’m optimistic about this approach.” instead of “I hope this will work.” These alternatives signify assertiveness of the future while acknowledging an open mind.

“I’m Not An Expert, But…”

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By using phrases such as “I’m not an expert,” you can reduce the perceived value of insight even if you provide it. If you humbly downplay your knowledge in a conversation, it makes others feel the same about the information you present because it undermines confidence in what you tell them. Instead, state it as simply as possible: “In my experience…” or “As far as I have observed…” would be more appropriate.

“I Guess…”

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Every time you use the phrase “I guess,” you will sound as if you are unsure of what you are talking about, although you may understand the given topic. When you precede a statement with “I guess,” you make yourself and your message seem less confident than they are. Instead, you can use: “It appears that …” or just offer your conclusion in an imperative tone.

“This Might Be A Silly Question, But…”

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Whenever you start a question with words such as “This may be a foolish question,” you demoralize your arguments and come off as uncertain. All questions are good whenever they assist in clearing understanding concerning specific issues or clarify a matter. Do not weaken your question with extra defensive words; you can just directly ask the question or say, “May I clarify…” or “I’d like some clarification on…”

“Maybe We Could Try…”

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Phrases such as “Perhaps we could try” are common, and you seem less sure when making your recommendations. Albeit admitting to being willing to entertain ideas is not wrong, structuring it in this manner undermines your authority. Instead of saying, “I suggest that” or “What we should do now,” it will lead to a definitive outcome and a clear sense of direction.

“I’m Just Checking In”

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Just like “Just following up,” the phrase “I’m just checking in” can also be seen as a way of gently reminding someone you are not worth speaking to and demanding attention by stating your needs. Taking out the perception word “just” also makes your request sound more professional and blunt, like: “I wanted to check on…” This kind of rewording tends to help the receiver understand that you value your time and theirs but are confident in your inquiry.

“I Could Be Wrong, But…”

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This phrase gives the impression that you have already started doubting yourself despite the right suggestion. Although being humble should be practiced, when one begins to question, even others will decline to take input from such a person seriously. If you are presenting a thought or an idea, just put it as a possible solution without questioning it immediately, or one can use, “Let me present a possible solution” or “Here’s an idea to consider.”

 “I’m Not Sure, But…”

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Saying this before giving your opinion about something screams not-confident. It weakens your message and instantly makes people doubt you before you finish speaking. Confident professionals talk with clarity and conviction, and if you want to come across as more competent, consider saying, “Here’s my assessment” or “Based on my understanding” instead. These phrases show that you’re thoughtful and informed, even if you’re not completely certain.

“I Can’t Promise Anything”

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This is one phrase to avoid if you do not want to sound unprofessional and inexperienced. Saying this immediately undermines your credibility. It signals uncertainty and a lack of commitment to your colleagues and supervisors. They may begin to view you as less competent, which in turn may affect your professional growth. Instead of saying this, focus on communicating clearly about what you can do and provide realistic timelines. 

“I’ll See What I Can Do”

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While you may think saying this statement expresses willingness, the message often gets miscommunicated. Such a vague statement is often interpreted as if you are not entirely sure whether you will follow through. It reflects badly on your professional image and suggests you’re not willing to take responsibility. Instead, communicate directly and let the other person know what to expect.

Using language in the workplace or how we communicate influences how colleagues view our abilities and self-efficiency. The primary impression of this simple communication skill is that it allows us to speak more assertively and make the desired impression in the workplace. Using words in business and professional settings can save your neck for what you are; careful word choice can help represent the best and most capable professional you indeed are.

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This article was first published at Rbitaliablog.

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