"Remember, if you don't have something productive to say, don't say anything at all. The wrong delivery or the use of inappropriate words can be a trigger for people to underestimate you in a professional or work environment."
Photo source: 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, is good, is necessary, and is helpful. If the answer is no, maybe what you are about to say should not be said." I believe this applies in the workplace as well as in personal and social life.
Therefore, Alinear Indonesia will share some words and phrases that are not good to use at work, with friends, colleagues, and in social life. Here they are!
1. “I Can't”
Photo source: Alinear Indonesia Docs.
When you're not confident about doing something your boss or someone else has asked you to do, don't immediately say, "I can't." Try saying, "Okay, I'll give it a try," or if you truly can't do it because it's beyond your skills and competence, try to provide an honest explanation that your counterpart can accept.
2. “Very”
Photo source: Alinear Indonesia Docs.
You'll sound "Super" when you use the word "Very." Try to use other words and phrases like "Skilled, Smart, Suitable, etc." Using the word "Very" can signify capability and skill, so the word choice should not be excessive. Example: Instead of "Very Tired," say "Exhausted."
3. “That's not my job”
Photo source: Alinear Indonesia Docs.
Often at work, you have to do tasks that are not your top priority. Or, outside of work, this can be a frustrating scenario. So, it's common to refuse, but will this approach help both sides (you and the company)?
When this happens, try to consider a more productive response or a word or phrase that contributes to achieving the intended goal.
4. “I don't have time”
Photo source: Alinear Indonesia Docs.
Everyone has the same amount of time in a day. Telling a colleague, boss, or client that you don't have time for something is quite rude in the workplace, but more than that, it can give a poor impression of your time management skills. It's better to use these alternative phrases when you're in this situation: "Could we discuss this after I finish the project I'm working on?" or "My plate is full today, but let me know when you need it and I'll tell you if I can do it."
If the request comes from your boss and your bandwidth is truly limited, it's recommended that you also detail your current task list and ask if there's anything you should de-prioritize to accommodate the new request.
5. “We should”
Photo source: Alinear Indonesia Docs.
This word usually means delaying a problem. "We should" should only be used in conjunction with a definite, time-bound action.
6. “I don't know”
Photo source: Alinear Indonesia Docs.
This word and phrase can be described as a dead end. It sometimes reflects a lack of commitment to yourself. Just imagine.
A better approach here is to provide the information you do know honestly or your perspective on the matter.
Case example:
Instead of "I don't know when the shipment will arrive," say, "The shipment is scheduled to arrive on Monday; I will contact the courier for an update and get back to you by the end of the day."
With the example above, the response will be different, not offensive, and will be easier for your conversation partner to accept and understand. Moreover, there are always contextual variables at play in your delivery.
Photo source: Alinear Indonesia Docs.
CONCLUSION:
Language is what we use to create a two-way relationship with two different personal views. Being mindful and thinking carefully about how we use it, and how it affects others, can lead to a total change in social and professional situations. Not only in the work or professional environment, but the use of words and phrases can also provide a judgment of your character or way of life to your conversation partner.
