70% use words that undermine their authority. Especially in work emails. 9 phrases I'm retiring from my emails: (and what I plan to use instead) “So sorry for the delay” → “Thanks for your patience” “What works best for you?” → “Could you do…?” “No problem/no worries” → “Always happy to help” “I was just wondering if we…” → “I propose we…” “I hope this looks ok” → “I look forward to your feedback” “Hopefully that makes sense?” → “Let me know if you have questions” “Just wanted to check in” → “When can I expect an update” “Ahhh sorry my bad, totally missed that” → “Thanks for letting me know” ”So sorry to bother you but…” → “I wanted to discuss…” —- Most don’t realize this, Our words shape perceptions. The key is recognizing ones that diminish authority. Then replace them with clear, confident language. Small changes can make a big impact. Start communicating confidently today! Do you find yourself using any of these phrases? Let me know. --- Reshare ♻ to help others communicate more confidently. And follow me for more posts like this.
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Jessica Hernandez, CCTC, CHJMC, CPBS, NCOPE
Jessica Hernandez, CCTC, CHJMC, CPBS, NCOPE is an Influencer Job Search Strategist for Executives & Mid-Career Pros | Land Your Next Job 2-3X Faster (Avg. 8 Weeks) | 8X-Certified Career Coach Trusted by 500K+ Job Seekers | Grab my free job search scripts below ↓
260,301 followersWell-chosen words can be the difference between an interview, a job offer, and a missed opportunity. Strategically chosen power phrases are persuasive tools, capturing hiring managers' attention and compelling them to engage deeply with your resume. Here are a few examples of the difference your word choice can make: 𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 Just OK: Helped customers with their problems. Replace with: Transformed customer pain points into loyalty-building opportunities 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 Just OK: Created presentations Replace with: Engineered persuasive presentations that secured executive buy-in for $2.3M in strategic initiatives. 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐦-𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 Just OK: Solved issues Replace with: Resolved complex technical challenges professionally and expeditiously. 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐬 & 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐞 Just OK: Increased sales Replace with: Orchestrated $2M explosive growth in quarterly revenue through strategic market penetration initiatives. See, the words we choose create a mental picture in our reader's mind and act as an emotional trigger. When writing your resume, you have to think like a marketer. Marketers use words that help people visualize outcomes. Choose words that help the hiring manager visualize the results you'd bring to the role. #LinkedInTopVoices #Resumes #Careers
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Listen up. I've coached thousands of sales calls across Fortune 500 companies, and I'm telling you right now most reps are sabotaging their deals without even realizing it. When I was a rookie rep back in 2007, I nearly got fired because I didn't understand how language patterns impact sales psychology. Now after helping teams double their sales results in 90 days, I can spot these conversion killers from a mile away. You're probably crushing your win rate with these seemingly innocent phrases. Here are 6 phrases that are absolutely DESTROYING your deals (and what to say instead): 1) "Sorry to bother you..." Look, when you start with an apology, you're basically telling the prospect "I'm not worth your time." You're six feet under before the conversation even starts. Top 1% performers NEVER apologize for delivering value. They command attention through absolute certainty. ✅ POWER MOVE: "Hey Alice, Marcus here from Venli. I'm reaching out because we helped Company X increase their pipeline by 37% last quarter, and I noticed your team might be facing similar challenges..." 2) "Just following up..." This lazy, low effort phrase screams "I have nothing valuable to add but I still want your money." It's the ultimate momentum killer. Elite reps are wildly precise with their words and always reference specific commitments made in previous conversations. ✅ POWER MOVE: "Alice, you mentioned you were going to discuss our proposal with Charles during your leadership meeting yesterday. I'm curious … what feedback did you receive that we should address?" 3) "I know you're really busy..." The moment these words leave your mouth, you've positioned yourself as less important. Game over. You're back in the hole. Remember: YOUR time is equally valuable. The top performers I've coached all communicate high status through subtle positioning. ✅ POWER MOVE: "I was just wrapping up a strategy session with Lisa, the CEO over at Company X, and wanted to quickly connect about next steps before my afternoon gets packed..." 4) "What are the next steps?" This shows you've done a poor job managing the process. You're basically admitting you don't have a system, a playbook or any real methodology. The sales machines I build GIVE direction, they don't ask for it. They own the process completely. ✅ POWER MOVE: "Based on what we've discussed, here's what typically happens next: First, we'll schedule a technical review with your team for next Tuesday. Then, we'll deliver a customized implementation plan by Friday. How does that sound?" 5) "To be honest..." Wait. Wait. Wait. So everything else you've said up until now was dishonest!? This undermines credibility faster than anything. When I turn around failing sales teams, eliminating this phrase is always one of the first habits we break. ✅ POWER MOVE: "That's an excellent question, Alice. Here's exactly how our solution addresses that challenge..."
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Unlocking Leadership Potential Through the Power of Words 🌟 Great leaders don’t just speak—they inspire, connect, and drive action through their choice of words. 🌟 Effective #communication is the foundation of #leadership, and building a strong vocabulary is key to inspiring teams, negotiating deals, resolving conflicts, and driving innovation. To unlock your full leadership potential, focus on mastering these four essential types of vocabulary: 1️⃣ Professional Vocabulary - Speak the language of your industry to establish credibility and demonstrate expertise. - Example: Understand and use terms like “artificial intelligence,” “fiduciary responsibility,” or “data analytics.” 🛠 Strategies: Stay informed with industry publications, create a personal glossary, and engage in peer learning. 2️⃣ Persuasive Vocabulary - Words like “growth,” “commitment,” and “opportunity” inspire action and align teams around a vision. - Reframe challenges into opportunities and practice using power words like “unite” or “revolutionize.” 🛠 Strategies: Learn from great speeches, practice framing statements positively, and craft messages with urgency and purpose. 3️⃣ Emotional Intelligence Vocabulary - Build trust and connection with words that convey empathy, resolve conflicts, and foster collaboration. - Examples: Use phrases like “I understand,” “I appreciate,” or name emotions like “frustration” and “excitement.” 🛠 Strategies: Actively listen, expand your emotional lexicon, and practice empathetic communication. 4️⃣ Analytical Vocabulary - Express complex analyses and #logicalreasoning with precision. Words like “benchmark,” “variance,” or “projection” help clarify your point. - Use logical connectors like “As a result” and “In comparison” to guide conversations. 🛠 Strategies: Study case studies, focus on transition phrases, and practice writing concise, data-driven summaries. 📚 Remember: Building your vocabulary is a lifelong journey. Commit to daily habits like reading, journaling, and practicing new words in real-world contexts. The more you invest in your vocabulary, the more you unlock the power to inspire, influence, and lead. What’s your go-to strategy for building a powerful vocabulary? Share below! #leaders #leadershipcommunication #archanaparmar #communication #vocabulary
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A few words nearly cost me a deal. I thought I was being polite. Friendly. Respectful of their time. But what I said came across as vague, uncertain—and maybe even a little desperate. I had emailed a prospect with: “Just checking in to see if you had any thoughts…” Nothing. No reply. Later, on a call, they told me: “We weren’t quite sure what you were asking for—it felt more like a gentle nudge than a clear next step. In the meantime, we connected with another partner.” That moment stuck with me and changed everything. Since then, I’ve become much more intentional about the language I use and how even small changes can have a big impact. Am I perfect? Definitely not. But I’ve learned that the right words can shift how we’re perceived and how effectively we connect. Here are a few common phrases that may be quietly working against us—and what to say instead: 🔴 “Just checking in / Circling back…” ✅ Try: “I wanted to follow up with something that might support what you're working on.” 💬 Example: “You mentioned [pain point]—I found [insight/case study] that might help as you navigate [challenge].” 💡 Why it works: You’re bringing something to the table—not just asking for attention. 🔴 “Would you be open to…?” ✅ Try: “Could I ask for your help with…?” 💬 Example: “Could I ask for your help in connecting with a few of your peers in other divisions?” 💡 Why it works: It’s confident, respectful, and moves the conversation forward. 🔴 “Feel free to…” ✅ Try: “Here’s my availability—let’s find a time that works for you.” 💬 Example: “Would next Tuesday or Thursday work for a quick touch base?” 💡 Why it works: You’re making it easier to say yes—and showing you're serious. These changes are subtle—but powerful. Words matter. In sales, they can build trust… or create distance. The good news? With a few thoughtful swaps, you can shift from chasing to leading. Ring my bell 🔔 to make sure you see my posts
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Congratulations, you're a senior leader now. Your words are weapons, and you probably don't even realize you're swinging a machete in a china shop. Welcome to the big leagues, where your "Do you have a minute?" can induce panic attacks and your "Please look into this!" has undertones of “right now—or else.” To you, it’s a casual request. To them, it’s a mandatory emergency drill. Forget about lunch breaks or that weekend hike—it’s DEFCON 1. You’ve just flipped their world upside down, all because you couldn’t bother to explain yourself for 30 seconds. Your words can cause sleepless nights, spike cortisol levels and ruin dinners with loved ones. Nice job, chief. This is the power you wield now, like a toddler with a loaded gun. And if you can't be bothered to learn how to use this power responsibly, then guess what? You shouldn't be in charge. The secret sauce here is intentional communication. You need to set the stage, paint the picture and then hand them the brush. Before you fire off that sloppy message, spend a couple of minutes to set the context. Otherwise, you're just the guy who yells "fire" in a crowded theater because you saw a matchstick. You're a puppet master now. Every string you pull jerks someone into action. And if you're too lazy or arrogant to consider the consequences of your commands, you're a tyrant in a suit. So, how do you send messages correctly and clearly on Slack? You want to avoid being the office equivalent of a serial killer, right? Here’s how you do it: [Action Requested by 5 p.m.] When you need something done by a specific time, spell it out. Don’t just bark an order and run. Give them a deadline so they know it’s a priority but not an emergency. [Just FYI] - NO action required. Sometimes, people just need information, not a marching order. Make it crystal clear that no action is needed. This helps prevent unnecessary stress and wasted effort. [Feedback Needed] - Don't spend more than 15 minutes reviewing, please. Feedback is important, but so is their time. Let them know how much time they should spend on it, so they can fit it into their day without breaking a sweat. [Approval Needed] - Due by EOD When you need approval, be specific about what needs approval and by when. Example: Please approve the updated budget by the end of the day. [Decision Required] - Review options and decide by tomorrow When a decision is needed, outline the options and set a clear deadline for the decision. Example: Review the attached project proposals and let me know your choice by EOD tomorrow. [Urgent] - Immediate action required For those rare, truly urgent situations, make it clear that immediate action is necessary. Example: The server is down. Please investigate and get back to me immediately. So, take a breath. Think before you speak. Communicate with intention. Because if you don't, the chaos you create will come back to bite you. Hard. #leadership #bestpractices #ThatAshleyAmber
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Verbal Power Tools: 7 Phrases That Build Instant Authority In the realm of professional communication, certain phrases carry more weight than others. Here are seven powerful expressions borrowed from Stephen Covey's timeless language that instantly boost your credibility: 1. "I understand your perspective." ◦ Why it's powerful: Shows active listening and empathy ◦ Impact: Creates immediate connection and trust with your audience 2. "Let me ensure I've got this right." ◦ Why it's powerful: Demonstrates careful attention to detail ◦ Impact: Reduces misunderstandings and shows respect for others' input 3. "What would success look like to you?" ◦ Why it's powerful: Shows commitment to mutual benefit ◦ Impact: Aligns expectations and creates clear objectives 4. "I appreciate you bringing this to my attention." ◦ Why it's powerful: Acknowledges others' contributions ◦ Impact: Encourages open communication and feedback 5. "Here's what I propose we do." ◦ Why it's powerful: Shows initiative and solution-focused thinking ◦ Impact: Moves conversations forward constructively 6. "I take responsibility for that." ◦ Why it's powerful: Demonstrates accountability ◦ Impact: Builds trust and shows leadership maturity 7. "Let's explore alternatives together." ◦ Why it's powerful: Promotes collaboration and openness ◦ Impact: Creates an environment of shared problem-solving These phrases, when used authentically, transform everyday conversations into opportunities for building stronger professional relationships. They're not just words, they're tools for establishing credibility and trust in any business setting. Remember: Credibility isn't about using fancy language; it's about choosing words that demonstrate respect, understanding, and professional maturity. Which of these phrases will you incorporate into your communication today? 🔔 Follow Mike Hays for more content strategy insights ♻️ Share to help others transform their messaging
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Have you ever stopped to consider the weight of the words you use as a leader? In my work with executives, I’ve seen how a single phrase—meant to motivate—can sometimes deflate an entire team. On the flip side, the right words can unlock courage, clarity, and connection. Let’s take a word like accountability. Too often, it’s thrown around as a weapon—something leaders demand rather than cultivate. But accountability isn’t about blame; it’s about ownership. Imagine the difference between these two approaches: “Who dropped the ball?” vs. “What can we learn here, and how do we move forward together?” The first sparks defensiveness. The second builds trust and solution-focused momentum. Or consider failure: Many leaders say they embrace failure—until it actually happens. Then it’s met with criticism rather than curiosity. But failure, framed well, becomes fuel for growth. “This didn’t meet expectations—what went wrong?” vs. “This didn’t go as planned—what insights can we take into our next attempt?” The first stifles innovation. The second invites experimentation. The truth is, our teams listen to more than just our strategies—they listen to our vocabulary. Every phrase is an opportunity: to build courage or spark fear, to empower or to diminish. Leaders: * What phrases do you find yourself repeating to your team? * Do those words build trust, ownership, and innovation—or do they create confusion or fear? * If your team could anonymously list 3 words that describe your leadership style, what would they be? * Would you be proud of those words? Teammates: * What’s a phrase or piece of feedback that stuck with you—for better or worse? * How has language shaped your leadership journey? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Let’s build our leadership vocabulary—one empowering word at a time. #Leadership #PowerofVistage #ExecutiveLeadership #AuthenticityFormula #CultureByDesign Vistage Worldwide, Inc. #vistagespeaker
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𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻 - 𝗼𝗿 𝗰𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲 - 𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿𝘀. 𝗠𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗮𝗿𝗲. Years ago, I watched a young analyst present a brilliant idea. She had the data. The solution was sound. But when the VP asked a follow-up, she said, "Um, I 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 this might be right." The energy in the room dropped. Ten minutes later, her teammate - using almost the same analysis - spoke up: "Based on 50 customer conversations, here's what we're seeing." Suddenly, everyone was listening. That was the day I learned: success isn't just about competence. It's about 𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘶𝘢𝘨𝘦. According to the Center for Creative Leadership, communication clarity ranks among the top three traits that define credible leaders. Harvard Business Review found that professionals who speak with evidence-based certainty ("the data shows," "our analysis reveals") are rated 27% more influential by peers and executives. In other words - how you frame your thoughts matters as much as the thoughts themselves. Try these phrases that command presence without arrogance: • "Based on 50+ customer conversations…" (signals expertise) • "The data shows…" (grounds your point in fact) • "Here's what happens if we wait 90 days…" (demonstrates foresight) • "I noticed a pattern that impacts…" (shows strategic awareness) • "This affects our relationship with…" (frames stakeholder impact) These small shifts build big credibility. McKinsey calls it "𝘦𝘹𝘦𝘤𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯." You don't need a louder voice - you need a sharper one. Because every phrase you choose either shrinks or strengthens your perceived authority. So before your next meeting, pause. Ask yourself: 𝘈𝘮 𝘐 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘥? Your words are the signal of your leadership. Use them like they matter - because they do. What's one phrase you'll start using this week? (Infographic first seen from George Sterns) 💡 Save to refer to later ♻️ Repost to help a colleague increase their business profile ➕ Follow Dr. Suzanne Morgan for more tips on leadership and mindset
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𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐀𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 Every day, we are bombarded with more information than we can remember. Whatever your role, you want your message to be remembered and repeated to others. When we do that, we are speaking to the audience of our audience. In selling, managing, inspiring, leading, training, copywriting, and, in fact in all forms of communicating, we must look for techniques that help make our messages memorable to our audiences. Before our colleagues, customers, partners, or audience members leave the meeting or presentation, we need to solidify our message or remind them of the action they must take. Tying a robust, repeatable message to stories or a significant point gives you a “Phrase That Pays.” How can this help you as a speaker or leader? When you give others a catchy, repeatable catchphrase – something funny, powerful, or thought-provoking – your listeners will be eager to repeat it to others. When your power phrases are attached to your content and examples, you will create an ever-expanding network of people retelling your key messages. One way to develop your own “Phrase That Pays” might come from popular culture. We quote commercials, lines from movies, and cartoons. For example, Apple’s “Think Different” phrase promotes creativity and innovation and encourages individuals to challenge the status quo. Nike’s “Just Do It” is a motivational call to action that resonates across all walks of life. Old Spice’s “Smell Like a Man, Man” is a humorous yet memorable phrase that appeals to their target market. 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐟𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐩𝐡𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐲𝐬: Keep it short and sweet: A memorable phrase should be concise. Make it relevant: Tie the phrase to your presentation’s core message or value. Use Vivid Language: Select words that create strong imagery or emotions. Be authentic: Confirm the phrase aligns with your personal or brand identity. Let me know some of your ‘Phrase That Pays’ are. #presentationskillsexpert #keynotespeaker #publicspeaking #frippvt