14 Things We Should Never Say If We Want To Be Taken Seriously At Work

Navigating the workplace can be tricky, especially when it comes to communication. If you want your colleagues and superiors to take you seriously, it’s essential to be mindful of your words. The way you express yourself can significantly influence how others perceive your professionalism and competence. Avoiding certain phrases can improve your work relationships and bolster your credibility. Here are 14 things you should steer clear of saying if you want to be taken seriously at work.

1. “I’ll Try.”

Saying “I’ll try” can make you seem non-committal or unsure of your abilities. It might come across as if you’re setting up an excuse for not completing the task. Instead, use language that expresses commitment, such as “I will” or “I can.” This small shift in wording can convey confidence and a proactive attitude. According to leadership expert John Baldoni, clear and decisive communication is crucial for effective leadership.

When you commit firmly to tasks, it shows that you take ownership of your responsibilities. Your colleagues and managers will likely appreciate a direct approach. If you’re unsure how to proceed, it’s better to ask questions or seek guidance rather than appear tentative. By doing so, you demonstrate initiative and a willingness to learn. Being decisive doesn’t mean you have to know everything; it just means being proactive and solution-oriented.

2. “That’s Not My Job.”

Saying “That’s not my job” can make you appear inflexible or unwilling to help out. In a team setting, it’s crucial to show that you’re willing to pitch in wherever necessary. Instead of outright refusing a task, try to understand the situation and find a way to contribute. You can use this as an opportunity to expand your skill set or strengthen your relationships with coworkers. A willingness to help, even when it’s not in your job description, can paint you as a team player.

Being helpful doesn’t mean you have to take on more than you can handle. It’s perfectly okay to discuss your current workload and prioritize tasks with your manager. Expressing your limitations while showing a willingness to contribute can build trust and respect. Your flexibility can lead to new opportunities and growth within the organization. Besides, you never know when the favor will be returned when you need assistance.

3. “I Know.”

Responding with “I know” during a conversation can come off as dismissive or arrogant. It might signal to others that you’re not open to feedback or new perspectives. Instead, consider responding with openness, such as “That’s interesting” or “Thanks for that insight.” This demonstrates a willingness to learn and engage with your colleagues. A study by communications coach Deborah Tannen highlights the importance of conversational tone and its impact on workplace dynamics.

By showing receptiveness, you create an environment where others feel heard and valued. This can lead to more productive discussions and stronger working relationships. Even if you are already familiar with the information being shared, acknowledging it politely can show respect for the other person’s input. It’s crucial to keep the lines of communication open and collaborative. Embracing a mindset of continuous learning can only benefit your professional development.

4. “Sorry, But…”

Apologizing before stating your opinion can undermine your authority and confidence. It suggests that you doubt the validity of your own viewpoint or that you’re bracing for a negative response. Instead, present your thoughts assertively without prefacing them with an apology. You might say, “I think we should consider…” or “My perspective is…” This way, you communicate your ideas clearly and assertively.

Of course, there are times when an apology is warranted, especially if you’ve made a mistake or unintentionally offended someone. In those cases, a sincere apology is appropriate and necessary. However, using “sorry” as a habitual preface can weaken the impact of your message. Practice being direct in your communication to foster confidence in your ideas. It’s about balancing humility with assertiveness to make a stronger impact.

5. “It’s Not Fair.”

Complaining that something is “not fair” can make you seem immature or unable to handle workplace challenges. Every job has its share of inequities, and how you address them can define your professional reputation. Instead of complaining, focus on finding a constructive way to address your concerns. Try discussing the issue with a manager or suggesting solutions that could improve the situation. Workplace researcher Ben Dattner emphasizes that framing concerns positively can lead to better outcomes.

Addressing issues professionally shows that you’re solution-focused and committed to improving the work environment. Everyone faces challenges at work, but how you respond defines your character. Speak up for yourself, but do so wisely, focusing on facts and potential solutions. This approach can earn you respect and create a more positive work environment. Remember, building credibility often involves showing you can handle adversity gracefully.

6. “I Think.”

Prefacing your statements with “I think” can weaken your argument by making it sound tentative. It suggests you’re not entirely confident in your viewpoint or solution. Replace “I think” with stronger language like “I believe” or “I’m confident that.” This slight change can enhance your perceived authority and conviction. People are more likely to take your ideas seriously when you present them assertively.

Being assertive doesn’t mean being aggressive. It’s about having the courage to express your thoughts clearly and confidently. If you’re unsure, it’s okay to acknowledge that, but aim to present your ideas as clearly as possible. Over time, this practice will build your confidence and improve how others perceive your contributions. Remember, your ideas deserve to be heard just as much as anyone else’s.

7. “I Don’t Have Time.”

Saying “I don’t have time” can imply poor time management or a lack of willingness to take on responsibilities. While it’s important to manage your workload, the way you communicate this matters. Instead of outright saying you can’t do something, try to discuss your current priorities and negotiate deadlines. Time management expert Laura Vanderkam suggests approaching time constraints as opportunities to discuss priorities rather than roadblocks.

When you communicate your availability with transparency, it can open the door to more constructive conversations about workload and priorities. It shows that you’re responsible about your commitments rather than just avoiding them. This approach can also help in developing a more collaborative work environment. It encourages mutual understanding and respect for each other’s schedules and responsibilities. Addressing time constraints thoughtfully can bolster your reputation for being reliable and communicative.

8. “I Just Thought.”

Starting a statement with “I just thought” can immediately diminish the strength of your point. The word “just” is often unnecessary and serves to minimize the importance of what you’re about to say. Instead, drop the qualifier and present your idea directly. This can help you come across as more confident and assertive. Your ideas are valuable, so present them with the confidence they deserve.

Eliminating apologetic language from your vocabulary can change how others perceive you. It’s about presenting yourself as someone who knows the worth of their contributions. Your colleagues and superiors will likely view you as more decisive and authoritative when you communicate without qualifiers. Each interaction can reinforce your professional image and the value of your input. Over time, this can lead to increased trust and responsibility in your role.

9. “This May Be A Stupid Question.”

Starting a question with a negative qualifier can diminish your credibility and discourage others from taking your contributions seriously. It implies that you lack confidence in your inquiry or that you fear judgment. Instead, ask your question directly or preface it with a neutral or positive statement. Confidence in questioning can stimulate meaningful dialogue and knowledge-sharing. Remember, questions are a part of learning and should be encouraged, not minimized.

Everyone has gaps in their knowledge, and asking questions is a great way to fill them. You’re more likely to foster a collaborative and supportive environment when you approach inquiries with confidence. There’s no shame in seeking clarification or additional information—it’s a sign of a proactive and engaged employee. By asking questions openly, you also model this behavior for others, encouraging a culture of continuous learning. It’s all about how you frame your inquiries to promote constructive discussions.

10. “It’s Always Been Done This Way.”

Relying on tradition without questioning its relevance can make you appear resistant to change. While it’s important to respect established processes, innovation often requires challenging the status quo. Instead of relying solely on past practices, suggest exploring new approaches when appropriate. This can demonstrate your willingness to adapt and improve. It’s crucial to balance respect for tradition with a forward-thinking mindset.

Encouraging innovation doesn’t mean discarding everything old. It’s about evaluating existing processes and determining if there might be better ways to achieve goals. Proposing alternatives can show your initiative and willingness to contribute to the organization’s growth. It also signals to others that you are a forward-thinker who isn’t afraid to embrace change. As industries evolve, so too should the strategies and approaches we use in our work.

11. “I Could Be Wrong, But…”

Starting a statement with “I could be wrong, but” instantly undermines your argument. It suggests that you lack confidence in your own perspective, which can cause others to doubt you as well. Instead, present your points clearly and assertively without preemptively doubting yourself. This doesn’t mean you can’t acknowledge uncertainty, but it’s crucial to do so in a way that doesn’t diminish your message. Confidence in communication can significantly impact how your ideas are received.

It’s normal to have doubts, but the key is in how you express them. Instead of downplaying your statement, try phrasing it in a way that invites discussion, like, “What do you think about this approach?” This invites collaboration while still presenting your idea assertively. Over time, practicing confident communication can help you project authority and build trust with your colleagues. Remember, your insights are valid and deserve to be heard.

12. “I Feel.”

Prefacing statements with “I feel” can sometimes make your points seem more subjective than they are. While emotions play a role in the workplace, it’s often more effective to focus on facts and evidence. Instead of saying “I feel,” consider starting with “I’ve noticed” or “The data shows.” This shifts the focus from your personal feelings to objective observations or evidence. It can help you communicate more persuasively and be taken seriously.

Facts and evidence carry weight in professional discussions. When you base your arguments on tangible information, you reinforce your credibility. This doesn’t mean you should ignore your emotions or intuition entirely. There’s a place for expressing how certain situations make you feel, but it’s important to balance that with factual reasoning. By doing so, you’ll be able to engage others more effectively and promote constructive dialogue.

13. “I Think That’s Impossible.”

Dismissing an idea as impossible can stifle creativity and problem-solving. Instead of shutting down possibilities, try to explore potential solutions or alternatives. Say something like, “That’s challenging, but what if we tried this approach?” This encourages a more positive and solutions-focused mindset. It can also inspire others to think creatively and collaboratively.

Skepticism is natural, but it’s important to channel it constructively. By framing challenges as opportunities, you can foster a more innovative and dynamic work environment. Your colleagues may appreciate your willingness to brainstorm and explore different avenues. This approach not only enhances your problem-solving skills but also fosters a culture where new ideas are welcomed. Ultimately, it’s about encouraging a mindset of possibilities rather than limitations.

14. “I’m Just An [Insert Job Title].”

Downplaying your role by saying “I’m just an [insert job title]” can diminish your perceived value and contributions. Every role in an organization serves a critical purpose, and it’s important to recognize and communicate that. Instead of minimizing your position, focus on the impact you make within the team or company. You might say, “As a [job title], I contribute to…” to highlight your role’s significance.

Recognizing your value can boost your confidence and how others perceive you. Each person’s contribution is vital to the success of a team or organization. By confidently acknowledging your role, you reinforce your importance and encourage others to see it too. Take pride in your work and the unique perspective you bring. This mindset can enhance both your personal satisfaction and professional reputation.