UNAPOLOGIZE

This month I am writing about ways to build confidence through communication. Before we can really focus on being confident, we need to start by unlearning the art of apology. 

For some reason, people tend to think they are inconveniencing others when they send an email or make a phone call. Sometimes we feel like we are bothering someone or interrupting their day when we reach out to them, but I am here to tell you to STOP thinking that way. 

Most of us are capable communicators. While we all have differing skill levels, we have the ability to communicate in some way. Some people are great writers, some are strong orators, other’s feel more comfortable observing and relaying information through body language and non-verbal cues. All of these are wonderful ways to communicate! 

I have noticed a trend in which individuals use apologetic phrases in their communication. These phrases make you sound weak and unsure of yourself, which, if I had to guess, is that exact opposite of what you want! 

Let’s dive into a few of the phrases that can weaken your credibility!

• “Maybe we should try” This phrase should not exist in your professional communication. You are a confident and capable individual, don’t bring doubt on yourself by using “maybe” when making a suggestion or proposing a solution to a problem. If you doubt your solution, so will everyone else. Instead, simply leave off the “maybe” and say, “We should try _________.”

• “I think” This one can also make it sound like you have doubt in yourself. If you are presenting an idea, it is already clear that you think it is a viable solution so there is no need to include “I think” in your verbiage. Simply state your idea clearly and confidently!

• “I just wanted to touch base” I am as guilty of this one as everyone else. We use it because it is gentle and feels like a friendly greeting. However, it also sounds apologetic and like we feel we are intruding on the other person. The good news is there is an easy fix for this one – leave out “just” and you will immediately come across as confident and as friendly as you wanted to!

Communicating is part of the human experience. When we communicate with others, we create connection, and that is what it is all about. Yet somehow, we have come to view our communication as a burden to others. Let me challenge you to flip that script. Approach your communication as a way to be present with others, to be of service, to complement what they need or what they are doing. The important thing to remember is that people want to hear from you. They want to hear what you have to say, and they don’t want you to feel inadequate. 

I hope this post has helped you understand the importance of strong communication. Whether you are communicating for business or personal reasons, don’t be afraid to be confident in your message!

Want to learn more about becoming a confident communicator? Let’s chat! Click HERE to book a strategy session with me! 

Thanks for stopping by!

Ciao for now!