5 WAYS TO RE-PHRASE

In most situations, there are multiple ways to get something done. Communication is no different. While there are usually many ways you can say something, some ways are better or more effective than others.

Think about the last time you asked someone to do something. If you said "Hey, do XYZ for me" you might be met with rolling eyes or even get ignored all together. But if you say something like "I'd appreciate your help, would you please do XYZ for me" then you are more likely to get that person to help you!

Asking for help isn't the only situation where how you phrase your request can make all the difference in the response you get. In this blog post we will discuss 5 ways to rephrase what you need to say so that you will get the response you desire!

1. Try replacing "I'm sorry" with "thank you." Instead of saying "Sorry I'm late" try saying "Thanks for your patience" or "Thank you for waiting for me." This simple rephrase immediately takes your words from a place of stress and negativity to one of gratitude.
2. Never start a sentence with "I think." When you start a statement with "I think" you immediately dilute your credibility. You give the impression that you are unsure of yourself, which will cause the recipient of your message to feel the same way.
3. Eliminate the word "just" when used as a softener. It comes off as apologetic and is usually unnecessary. How many times have you started an email with "Just wanted to touch base with you" or "Just checking in”? If you are following up with a client or business associate, there is no need to soften your follow up. Stand firm and be confident. You will build rapport with your recipient by being clear and direct, no need for softeners or indirect apologies in your message.
4. Avoid saying "For the record," "Needless to say," or "For what it's worth." These are unnecessary openers and can weaken your message. These phrases are some of what I call fluff words in that they take up space but lend zero substance to your message.
5. If you work with a team, this one is for you. When taking credit, always use "we" or "our" and when taking blame or assuming responsibility, use "I" or "my." When things go well, it is a team effort and it might seem trivial, but when your team sees you take all the credit it alienates them. Conversely, when you acknowledge that the good work was a product of the team working together, it helps build them up. When things don't go well, blame should not be shared. As a team leader or as the individual who made a mistake or is responsible for the issue, take full responsibility. "Take one for the team" applies in this type of situation.

I hope you find these examples useful. These tips will immediately help your confidence and boost your credibility with others. Simply changing how you phrase your words can make a huge difference in how your message is received, how you are perceived, and how the people receiving your message respond.

I hope you can use these tips in your everyday communication to instantly improve your skills! To learn more about becoming a better, more effective, or more confident communicator, click HERE to grab a copy of my free guide "Communicate Greatly." I can't wait to hear how these tips help you instantly improve your communication skills!
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Ciao for now!