Credibility Killers

Many people use phrases that quietly chip away at credibility. Phrases like "I just wanted to..." and "Sorry, but..." can signal hesitation before you make your point. Researchers who study workplace speech find that hedging language can make speakers sound less certain to the people listening.

Words like "just," "maybe," and "sort of" can soften useful points until they sound optional. Use them when humility is needed, not as a default apology for having an idea.