- saying “we” when you really mean “I”
- using words such as “kinda”, “sortof”, and “right”
- being indirect in asking for something by saying “would you mind…”
These “softeners” often result in ambiguity and confusion about a person’s intent. Effective communicators and influencers, on the other hand:
- take ownership for their feedback by saying “I” believe,” “I” think,” and “I” feel
- eliminate “kinda,” “sortof,” “right,” and other softeners from their vocabulary
- influence others to take action by saying “please do this” or by asking “will you please do this”