WORDS WOMEN SHOULD STOP USING AT WORK

Think about the last time you sent a work email. Did you use the words Just or I think ? If the answer is yes then STOP it! Women so much more often than men use these terms both in email as well as verbally. For example, I just wanted to see if you were prepared for tomorrows presentation. Instead of, Are you prepared for tomorrows presentation? The ladder is more direct and to the point and it also holds that person accountable for what they are suppose to be doing. The former suggests that there isn't a expectation and that is ok if that person isn't prepared. 

When communicating in a professional setting its not just ok to be direct its necessary. It allows you to delegate tasks and hold people accountable for their work and it allows them to know what the expectations are without any confusion. 

I think we should.....

If you are saying something, then that is what you think. There is no need to start with I think. Getting rid of these as we like to call them "ease into it words" shows confidence and capability in YOU. Most men don't sit around wondering if their emails sound too harsh or aggressive. Or wondering if their colleague will take it the wrong way and neither should you. The important thing is to get the job done. 

Of course there is something to be said about likability in the work place and we are not at all suggesting for you to be a complete asshole. You can be liked and friendly with your coworkers or business partners while simultaneously being direct and to the point. They are not mutually exclusive. 

Think about a boss or manager that you really liked and respected. What were some of their best qualities? Did you read their emails confused as to what expectations they had for you and your work? 

So the next time you go into a meeting or send an email I think you should just leave those words out of it (see what we did there:). Be prepared and be confident.