Award-winning keynote speaker and CEO of RISE Learning Solutions, Lorraine K. Lee, recently shared insights on effective communication strategies that can enhance the way individuals are perceived in professional environments. During a discussion with 70 parents of highly successful adults, Lee identified specific phrases that diminish authority and suggested more powerful alternatives.
Lee cautioned specifically against the word “just,” which can easily ruin your tone, usually by making what you say sound less authoritative. By removing these types of qualifiers, people can state their messages with greater confidence. This relatively minor adjustment can make a huge difference in how they’re viewed by others and the authority with which they speak.
In her remarkable talk with parents, Lee pointed to four phrases she stubbornly disallowed as a parent. Those kids have since become some of the most accomplished young adults in the nation. These coupled words tend to have a more waffling-sounding vibe, as she noted. They disproportionately shift the burden onto the listener to figure out what you actually mean.
Touching base about the proposal I emailed you. Would really like to be able to firm up next steps by Friday. The use of clear language that invites a response without reducing authority is what Lee pointed to as an example, as seen above.
Lee illustrated that the most effective changes in perception come from changing the subtle everyday experiences. These conversations can happen in a variety of ways—from crafting an email to speaking out in a meeting to pinging someone on Slack. She challenged people on both sides to use more assertive language to create more transparent conversations.
For instance, instead of saying, “Just wanted to add my two cents quickly,” Lee suggests rephrasing to “I recommend we move forward with the new proposal.” Confidence isn’t just communicated through your tone and words, it’s demonstrated by how you shorten the conversation.
Each of these commands foster clear communication and invite participation, all without undermining your credibility.
- “I’ll take care of that by Thursday.”
- “I’ll update the slides before our next meeting.”
- “I’d love to support the presentation or help prep for next week’s client meeting. What would be most helpful?”
- “Could we find time next week to discuss?”
Lee remarked, “The clearer you are, the easier it is for others to respond.” This powerful example illustrates her conviction that the ability to foster communication opens up opportunities for better solutions in workplaces and at home.
Her recommendations stem from her decades’ worth of experience as a best-selling author and internationally acclaimed communication strategist. Her book, “Unforgettable Presence: Get Seen, Gain Influence, and Catapult Your Career,” has been deemed a must-read by the Next Big Idea Club, further establishing her credibility in the field.
Her insights are drawn from her extensive experience as a best-selling author and a recognized expert in communication strategies. Her book, “Unforgettable Presence: Get Seen, Gain Influence, and Catapult Your Career,” has been deemed a must-read by the Next Big Idea Club, further establishing her credibility in the field.