Stop saying ‘I’m sorry’ at work, which can make you look weak: Try these phrases instead
Stop saying ‘I’m sorry’ at work: Try these phrases instead — CNBC
Hello, Medium fam, it’s Trice! Today, let’s unpack a habit that many of us have, one that can unintentionally dampen our self-esteem and professional image — over-apologizing.
We’ve all been there. Spilling coffee, walking into a room late, needing to voice a differing opinion — it seems like “I’m sorry” is the automatic response that springs to our lips. But, how often are we genuinely at fault? More importantly, what message does this constant apologizing send about our self-confidence and agency?
The tendency to over-apologize often comes from a deep-seated insecurity, a fear of appearing too assertive or overbearing. This is particularly common among women and people of color. Society has conditioned us to downplay our accomplishments, to shy away from confidently stating our worth. As a Black woman, this was my upbringing. We are taught to stay humble and dismiss our victories. No wonder we feel insecure!
The need to say “I’m sorry” too often stems from this internalized self-doubt. Recognizing the situations when an apology is necessary (and when it’s not) is crucial to overcoming this habit. Let’s explore some alternatives to the default “I’m sorry.”
**Tech Glitches**
With the rise of remote and hybrid work models, we’re relying on technology more than ever. But tech hiccups happen, and they’re usually not our fault. Instead of apologizing for uncontrollable tech issues, try phrases like “Thank you for your patience” or “I appreciate your understanding.” This shifts the focus from apology to gratitude, enhancing your professional image.
**Contributing to Conversations**
If you’re in a meeting and wish to add your viewpoint, don’t preface your valuable insights with an apology. There’s no need to apologize for sharing relevant thoughts. Replace “Sorry, but I’d like to weigh in” with “I’d love to add” or “Here’s a different perspective.” This conveys confidence and respect for your own knowledge.
**Mistakes**
Everybody errs. If you make a mistake at work, an apology isn’t necessarily wrong, but it’s not the strongest response. When you acknowledge a mistake, emphasize your readiness to rectify it. “Thank you for the feedback,” “I take full responsibility,” and “I appreciate your bringing that to my attention — how can I improve?” are solid alternatives. They demonstrate accountability and a proactive approach to improvement.
Remember, there’s a time and place for genuine apologies. But make sure your “I’m sorry” is reserved for moments when it truly counts, ensuring its sincerity isn’t diluted. It’s time to break the over-apologizing habit. Let’s assert our agency and communicate with the confidence we deserve!
Let’s #StopOverApologizing and #SpeakWithConfidence. Keep doing you!
