7 ways to sound smarter and stronger at work

Sounding confident and intelligent in front of a potential client is still unachievable for many of us.

We all want to come off as an innovative yet grounded person at work, whom one can approach for advice.

In addition, coming across as smart and strong is extremely important in the competitive times we live in. Here are seven ways you can be more thoughtful and more substantial at work.

1. Stop being “sorry”
Don’t end or start every other sentence with “I’m sorry.” Using this phrase will make you look like you don’t understand the work, and you may sound less confident. Instead, explain yourself and have an opinion, till it doesn’t hamper the work ethics.

2. Take time and think
In order to sound confident, you should avoid using the words “um,” “you know,” etc. Speak at the speed you feel comfortable at. However, remember everyone has a deadline to work. Think and speak.

3. Pause on punctuation
You don’t want to sound like a robot and bore the people during your presentation. The key to sound confident is speaking in a perfect manner and pausing wherever the need is. Many times we speak in a go, and the focus is lost. Try to include punctuations in your sentences even while speaking. Pause for 2 seconds after completing a sentence and for a second before continuing to any other point.

4. No need to hurry
Stammering, pausing, or stuttering, will make you sound less intelligent. All of this may happen because of the notion in your head, “what are other people thinking.” Well if you do the things mentioned above, they will think you don’t know what you are talking about. Hence, figure out what you want to say and convey it without caring what anyone thinks of you.

5. Overconfidence causes harm
Just because you rocked that one presentation doesn’t mean that you will do the same in the next. Do your homework and know your facts without getting overconfident. Always prepare for a meeting to sound more confident.

6. Respect opinions you don’t have
Always listen to what other people are saying. Don’t force your views on anyone, respect their opinion and try to learn from it. There will be many times when someone else’s opinion will make more sense, and it is okay to change your side after listening to them. Remember, this is not a debate competition.

7. Breathe in and out
If you are panicking about a presentation or a meeting, breathe first and then go in. Long inhales and exhales will calm your nerves down and make you look more confident. Don’t fidget with paperweights or shake your leg while speaking if you want to look smart.