5 Powerful Phrases That Make You Instantly More Likeable at Work
It’s not what you say but how you say it
I spend the majority of my time at work talking to my coworkers. We talk about our projects, their milestones, resources, and solution to various challenges.
The current situation pushed us to be away from each other. And now, we are talking even more to one another since many of us are working remotely.
Communication and clarity have never been more crucial for my team and myself. We are currently in a situation where we need to keep morals high and efficiency at its highest.
Positive words have a huge impact on people — This is a science on its own. Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) is a pseudoscientific approach to communication, personal development, and psychotherapy. This pseudoscience deals with how “what we say” impacts others and ourselves.
I’ve learned from my mentor that some sentences are perceived negatively, even if the intention behind them is good. However, a minor rephrasing can mean the same, but it will be appreciated.
Think about it; did it ever occur that some people said something that rubbed you the wrong way at work? Now imagine what you might have said that others took straight to heart. A simple rephrasing might be all that you need to avoid such a scenario.
So, let us stop beating around the bushes and let us start, shall we? In the end, we are talking about the necessity of good communications and remember:
It’s not what you say, but how you say it
№1: This is a nice idea, but let’s look at it from a different angle
Working together with your colleagues means disagreeing sometimes. When the time is tight, and people are stressed, it is easy to scream: “You are wrong” or “This is wrong.”
Let’s face it, being told you are wrong doesn't sit well in our minds and hearts. Our pride takes over, and anger emotions start boiling up.
“This is a nice idea, but let’s look at it from a different angle” is a better, subtle, and more diplomatic way to tell someone: “I think you are wrong.” However, what you are actually telling them is:
- I appreciate the effort.
- I don’t disagree with you, but let’s consider something different.
- I need your valued opinion and effort to find the right solution together.
Were you able to notice the positive vibes from the previous points? And your coworkers will too, and it will boost their morals and engagement with you. You basically told them they are valuable team members, and you need them to succeed.
№2: Thanks for pointing this out
Under point №1, we discussed what you should say if you believe one of your coworkers is not on the right track. However, what do you answer if someone pointed out that you are mistaken?
Okay, swallow your pride and don’t get emotional. This person did not read this post yet.
Whatever happens, remember that this person probably noticed something that did not add up, and for that, we need to thank him first.
“Thank you for pointing this out,…” then continue with your argument or answer. This is a nice way to bounce ideas back and forth between colleagues. Yes, it will get tedious if you answer “Thank you for pointing this out,…” every time — Use it wisely!
№3: I’d love your input on something
Don’t you feel somehow good when someone asks for your opinion? Now, if someone asked for your opinion once or twice, won’t you feel inclined to ask them for their opinion as well?
This is exactly the trick here — by asking people for their opinion, they will most likely open up to you and start asking you for your opinion. They will try to run their hurdles by you first because they value you — the person who asked for their opinion and input on matters before.
Admitting you are not a know-it-all helps your coworkers open up to you, especially if you are their supervisor or team leader.
№4: Let’s work it out together
This is important, especially if you are a team leader. People have to see you working with them on matters instead of just managing the work and giving orders.
One of the best motivators for workers is to see their supervisor working harder than them.
Let your team know you are one of them and that you are interested in solving the challenges together with them. Do not tell them, “This is not my job” or “solve it on your own.,” before you call it a night and stop working for the day. Be part of the team, not only its leader. Let your team know that they are important pillars to it too.
№5: Nice work team
As you might have noticed from the previous points, showing gratitude is essential in a healthy working environment.
Show your coworkers gratitude and pat them on the shoulder for a job well done. If someone did an extraordinary job, highlight his involvement and contribution to the rest of the team and your boss as well.
Let people know that you are pleased with their effort and actions. Transfer this to your boss and let the boss know that some talents are doing a great job, and they may require a raise on their salary or a promotion. If they took the initiative on a specific task, show them appreciation — Even if they failed, they’ve tried at least.
2020 threw us a curveball and sent the majority of us to remote work. Therefore, verbal communications are inevitable and dictate our work relations.
Sentizise yourself to the power of words and allow simple words to boost morale and corporation in times like these.
Walid Al Otaibi -WAO- is a top writer in Gaming. He works at an engineering company in Germany. He comes from a multicultural background and is located in Germany since 2003. He is writing about Arab Culture, Multiculturalism, Finance, and Trending topics.
