Words to avoid using in any job situation

- Even the people at the top, your boss's boss's boss and the VIPs in your newsfeed don't know what they're doing a lot of the time or think they don't. Imposter syndrome is real, but the syndrome doesn't need to have noticeable symptoms. While being vulnerable and asking questions make sense in certain situations, there are ways to channel confidence, even when you're not feeling it, here are some words and phrases to avoid to make sure you're presenting this sitting up straight version of yourself. The P word, protective words, just, just don't use it. It diminishes the words that follow instead of just following up, I'm following up. I think, or IMO. These are words you might use to try to protect yourself before you wreck yourself, but they actually end up undermining your power. Yeah but, comes across as combative and negative. The D word dramatic words. Totally, very, absolutely. These types of words can diminish your credibility and make you sound like Cher Horowitz. The F word, filler words, like whatever, et cetera, so on and so forth. Pause for a moment to collect your thoughts, then don't fill the space with fillers. The A words, ability and apology words. I'll try, trying suggests you're unsure of your ability to complete the task. Sorry, use it sparingly for situations directly caused by you. Don't apologize for instances out of your control or for someone else's actions. Also never criticize or apologize for your own work while making a presentation. For example, sorry, if you can't read this slide, well. It de-legitimizes your work before you get going. The other S word, superior words. Actually and obviously suggest that people don't understand the issue or circumstances they're condescending. Like I said, and as I've believed all along, make you sound defensive. That's not my job, makes you sound kind of lazy. Rather than say it explicitly, reroute the task to someone whose job it is.