Embracing Confident Communication: Ditch Apologies in Emails and Meetings

In the workplace, as women, we often find ourselves apologizing more frequently than our male counterparts. Whether it's a minor miscommunication or simply taking up space in a meeting, the habit of saying "I'm sorry" or "My apologies" unnecessarily can undermine confidence and authority. It's time to challenge this tendency and ditch unnecessary apologies when communicating in the workplace.

What does over-apologizing do?

When women apologize excessively, it can lead to several negative outcomes:

• Undermines Authority: Frequent apologies can diminish our confidence and others' perception of our competence. This contributes to shrinkage in the workplace.

• Reduces the communication: Apologizing can reduce the significance of our message and establish a precedent for how others will perceive our communication in the future.

• Perpetuates a false narrative: Over-apologizing perpetuates stereotypes that women are less assertive, which can affect career advancement and leadership opportunities.

  
  

Strategies to reduce unnecessary apologies

Here are some effective strategies to minimize unnecessary apologies when communicating.

• Consider the reasons why: Recognize instances where you apologize frequently and assess if it's truly necessary. Sometimes, it's merely an acknowledgment or thoughtfulness, rather than a genuine apology.

• Use confident communication: Replace apologies with assertive statements. For example, instead of saying "I'm sorry I missed your call" say "I realize I missed your call" Avoid making excuses and providing irrelevant explanations, as they undermine your communication.

• Offer an apology appropriately. Apologize only when it is justified. In such instances, say "I apologize" instead of "I'm sorry." Be specific and take ownership. The best apology is changed behavior.

  
  

Conclusion

By consciously reducing the habit of apologizing, we can elevate our professional presence and assertiveness. Let’s empower each other to speak up with conviction and assert our rightful place in every conversation!

Reflection: What do you need to stop apologizing for at work?