🤷‍♂️ “I need my English to Sound More Decisive at work.” 🛑Stop Using These 3 Words. ✅Try these instead! ⬇️

Let’s play a game! “Which sounds stronger?”

🅰️ “I think maybe we could try sending the draft tomorrow.”

🅱️ “Let’s send the draft tomorrow and adjust as needed.”

Same idea. Same goal. But one lands harder.

If you speak English as a second language, you might default to sounding polite, careful, or non-confrontational (especially in group settings).

And that’s totally natural.

But in American business culture, too many softeners—can make you sound unsure, or feel unseen—even when you’re sure of your idea.

🚨 3 Words That Weaken Your Message (When Overused):

✖️ “Just”

✖️ “Maybe”

✖️ “I think…”

None of these are bad. They’re usually unnecessary. And they make your ideas sound less confident.

✅ Here’s How to Sound Decisive (Without Sounding Pushy):

Use action-first language.
➤ “Let’s move forward.”
➤ “We’ll need to finalize this by Friday.”
➤ “It’s best to start here.”
Save ‘I think’ for opinions—not decisions.
✔️ OK: “I think this concept resonates with our clients.”
🦄 Even better for action: “Let’s run with this—it's aligned with what our clients want.”
Lead with clarity.
➤ “I recommend we simplify the onboarding steps.”
➤ “How about we streamline that into three phases?”
Back it up briefly.
➤ “This gives us more flexibility if the timeline shifts.”
➤ “It keeps things clear for the client side too.”

🎯 Pro Tip: You can still sound respectful, collaborative—and clear.

Decisiveness isn’t dominance. It’s direction.

🌐 Especially helpful when you’re:

💬 What’s your go-to phrase to sound clear, and not overly cautious?

Drop it below—I’m building a list of power openers and closers. We’d love your input!

👉 Want more Business English strategies for everyday leadership?

Visit www.AurumBorealis.com for tips, custom templates, and coaching designed for international professionals.

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