Here’s a quick and powerful professional communication skills training lesson from communication trainer and motivational keynote speaker Dan O’Connor:
DANGER PHRASE: “In my opinion…” POWER PHRASE: “I believe…”
When it comes time to give your opinion, don’t diminish the power of your message by prefacing it with something such as, “In my opinion….” Doing so tells the listener, “Well, it’s JUST my opinion, so take it or leave it….”
Sometimes, of course, this is exactly what you mean to say. For example, if you’re the boss, and your employee asks you for feedback, and you’re really not certain that your ideas are spot-on, you might say, “In my opinion,” and the effect is what you intended. However, many up-and-coming executives are uncertain and insecure, and therefore preface what could be wonderful solutions with phrases such as, “In my opinion…” which then sabotages the subsequent message.
The listener already knows it’s your opinion, and stating so merely takes away from your professional communication power. Instead, try something such as, “I believe…” or–nothing at all. Remember that sometimes brevity is key; the most powerful messages are those that are short, clear, and concise.
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