Never Say This at Work: Three Phrases That Undermine Your Authority 0 7

Kate Mason, who has spent ten years in communications at companies like Google and YouTube, spoke about the "imposter syndrome," where employees are overly shy about putting themselves forward or being a "burden" at work, which often leads them to downplay their achievements.

As CNBC reports, she warns that such habits of self-deprecation lead to underestimating oneself and one’s work overall. Here are three "diminishing phrases" that Mason recommends all professionals avoid in the workplace.

"It will only take a second"

People who use this phrase often act with the best intentions to show respect for others' time, Mason says. However, in reality, she notes that this phrase can have the opposite effect.

First, "you create an expectation in the other person that your task will be completed very quickly," she says, but "literally nothing takes a second." An unrealistic time estimate can irritate or disappoint the other person.

Moreover, this phrase also creates an expectation that whatever you are about to say will be trivial or unimportant, which can undermine your main point.

The best way to phrase your request is: "I will set aside an hour for us next week. I want to discuss points A, B, and C. Let me know if that time works for you," Mason says.

"It’s okay if not"

This phrase is often used to "soften" a direct request, Mason says, but in reality, it conveys a low priority for your request.

Instead, Mason suggests clearly stating the purpose and timeline of your request. For example, "I would appreciate it if you could send me your edits by noon, as the final version needs to be ready by tomorrow."

As Mason explains, psychological research from the 1970s showed that people are more likely to fulfill a request if they are given a reason. In that context, people "are usually happy to help," she says.

"I’m not an expert, but…"

This phrase instantly lowers trust in you, Mason says. By using such a phrase, you diminish your authority and signal uncertainty.

People often downplay their achievements when they feel awkward, Mason says, especially if they consider themselves "extra" in a group. However, instead of downplaying your value, she recommends embracing the unique qualities you bring to the work.

"You were hired not because you have the same experience as a vice president or senior executive," she says. "You were hired because you have expertise."