All Ears English Podcast

AEE 1698: How Being Humble Can Hurt You in Business English

Dec 20, 2021
Discover how excessive humility can undermine confidence in business. Learn why a simple word choice can make you seem less competent. The discussion highlights the importance of clear communication, especially in networking and job interviews. Explore the role of language in projecting self-assurance and how expressing achievements assertively can influence colleagues. Cultural differences in humility are also explored, emphasizing the need for clarity to avoid miscommunication in professional settings.
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ANECDOTE

Concert Observation

  • Lindsay heard a musician say, "I tried to write a song..."
  • This triggered her to think about how such language can convey low confidence.
ADVICE

Direct Language

  • Replace "I tried to" with direct statements like "I did" or "I organized."
  • Focus on your accomplishments instead of downplaying them.
ADVICE

Confidence in Business

  • Project confidence, especially in professional settings.
  • Avoid "I tried to," especially on international business calls or when presenting your work.
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