Dianna Booher, a bestselling author and communication expert, provides valuable tips on how to convey confidence and competence in professional communication. She highlights common mistakes such as using softened commands and requests, tentative language, wiggle words, cliched closings and openings, awesome adjectives, bobble-head gestures, and limp lead-ins. By avoiding these pitfalls, professionals can ensure that their communication is direct, assertive, and impactful.
One of the key mistakes Booher points out is using softened commands and requests that sound weak and unauthoritative. Instead of saying, “Could you please sign and return this form at your convenience?” she suggests being more direct by saying, “Please sign and return this form.” By adding courtesy phrases while still maintaining a level of authority and confidence, professionals can strike a balance between politeness and assertiveness in their communication.
Another common error Booher addresses is the use of tentative language such as “as soon as possible” or “within the next few days.” By failing to specify a deadline, individuals may end up having to send reminder emails, resulting in confusion and inefficiency. Booher advises being clear and specific with deadlines, while still giving the other person an “out” if needed, to avoid misunderstandings and delays in communication.
Additionally, Booher discusses the importance of avoiding wiggle words, such as “likely” or “probably,” which can make statements sound tentative and lacking in impact. By removing adjectives and adverbs and sticking to nouns and verbs, professionals can convey their message more directly and confidently. Using appropriate descriptors instead of cliches like “amazing” or “awesome” can also help individuals sound more articulate and professional in their communication.
Booher also touches on nonverbal communication cues, such as bobble-head gestures, which can be misinterpreted by others. Nodding along with someone’s speech may be perceived as agreement, even if that is not the intention. By keeping their head still and chin level while listening, individuals can avoid sending mixed signals and ensure that their nonverbal cues align with their intended message.
Furthermore, Booher advises against using limp lead-ins and cliched closings and openings in emails or conversations, as they can make communication seem less impactful and sincere. By dropping tentative phrases like “I just wanted to ask you if…” and using more direct language, professionals can get straight to the point and convey their message with confidence. Ending with original closing lines that are tailored to the message and recipient can also help build strong relationships and leave a positive impression.
In conclusion, Booher emphasizes the importance of choosing words carefully to create a positive image and impact in professional communication. By avoiding common mistakes and adopting a more confident and competent communication style, individuals can enhance their influence and effectiveness as communicators. Ultimately, confidence and competence in communication can lead to big dividends both personally and for the organization.
