Transforming Communication: Choosing Words Wisely in Business

As I've journeyed through the world of business, one thing that's really struck me is the power of language. It's not just about what we say, but how we say it that can make a huge difference. I've made some conscious changes to my vocabulary and it's been eye-opening.

One of the big shifts I've made is ditching the word "little" when describing things. You know, like saying "he has a little wine shop." It might seem harmless, but it can come across as demeaning or dismissive. Who am I to judge the size of someone's business? Now, I try to focus on the essence of what's being done and the potential behind it, rather than its size. I'm totally excited about his wine shop and impressed that he created it from scratch!

Another thing I've been mindful of is how I use the word "but." It's so easy to use "but" to negate or diminish what was said before. For example, instead of saying "I can't make it, but I wish I could," I've started saying "Wish I could, next time." No excuses, and a positive tone. It's a small change, but it shifts the focus to the hope of doing future things without the need for explanation.

Negativity is another area I've been working on. Instead of flat-out saying "no" or "not," I try to find a positive way to frame my responses. For instance, if someone asks about my availability on Tuesday night, instead of saying "no," I might say "I have other plans on Tuesday."

And then there's how I communicate with my team. I used to ask questions like, "Mark, would you please take the trash out?" It's not that it's wrong, but I realized it can sound a bit uncertain. It also requires them to respond to the affirmative instead of just taking action. Now, I'm more direct and clear, saying "Mark, please take the trash out." It's a subtle change that helps set expectations clearly and empower my team to take action confidently.

These shifts in my language aren't just about being politically correct; they're about creating a more respectful and positive environment. Every word we choose can either build someone up or unintentionally tear them down. By being mindful of our language and choosing words that uplift and empower, we can foster better relationships and a more productive business culture. I hope my words reflect the sincerity of who I am!

Hey there, tech entrepreneurs! In the fast-moving world of tech, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. One game-changing tool that's made waves in our industry is the interactive prototype. Let’s dive into how these powerful tools can help you visualize and refine your software before it hits development, saving you time, money, and headaches along the way.

Contact CODE/+/TRUST to see what we can create together!