How NOT to Undercut Your Suggestion Before You Even

Give It!

                  I’ve seen what I’m discussing here today happen all too often and it involves beginning suggestions like this –>  “I don’t know if this will be a good idea or not, but………”. The mere fact that this statement started off with a negative tone pretty much sets up the rest of the statement for failure! Phrasing a statement like this sends a message that you lack confidence in what you are preparing to say or that you don’t think your are worthy of the authority it takes to make this type of suggestion.

A couple of other ways I’m sure you’ve heard this stated is:

* “This may sound silly, but……..”

{OR}

* “I don’t know if the group will want to go with this decision, but………”.

                Instead, focus on what you are trying to convey and say it with positive affirmation. Be confident in your statements and say things like:

* “My suggestion is this……..”

* “I Believe our best bet is to ………..”

* “Let’s try to make this work doing X, Y, Z as our method

                   If you’re already in the habit of starting off most of your suggestions with a negative tone, it may take some practice to stop yourself from doing so, but you most certainly CAN change this habit! Practice speaking with confidence and authority. Don’t shoot yourself in the foot before you even get started! Work diligently to clearly communicate your thoughts so that those you are speaking to feel the confidence you should be commanding as a leader.

Dr. Carmen April’s Speaker Series

             Dr. Carmen April is a young entrepreneur and community leader recognized as a 2013 Nashville Business Journal Top 40 Under Forty Award Recipient and is a 2014 Graduate of the New Leaders Council Institute – Nashville Chapter.  Dr. April is available for speaking engagements on Entrepreneurship for College Students and Young Professionals.