Maybe it’s time to cool down
Words carry weight. Whether you are flagging (raising awareness of) a budget shortfall or giving feedback on a partner’s project, the adjectives you choose determine whether you are seen as a a calm voice of reason or out-of-control.
Sometimes we need to add a bit of ‘spice’ to our communication to get results. But if the heat is too high, people stop listening to your ideas and start reacting to your tone.
How do you find the perfect professional temperature?
Follow these three WorkIt! guidelines:
1 – Check your temperature: Before hitting ‘send’ on a sensitive email or walking into an important meeting, run your adjectives through the thermometer. Are you in the “Professional” zone, or have you accidentally slipped into “Danger”?
2 – Turn it down one notch: High-level, professional English is about logic, not just volume. If you’ve written “This is a disastrous policy,” try turning it down one notch to “This policy is unsustainable.” You’ll find people listen to the strategic risk rather than reacting to the emotional outburst.
3 – Get a second opinion: Sometimes you’re too close to a situation to know the true spice level of your draft. Ask a colleague or book a Language Audit. I’ll look at your real-world emails and reports with you to find the perfect temperature for your specific audience.
Move past the language barrier. Master the language of impact.