“I Promise”: Stop Undermining Yourself With This Phrase
In the last few years, there have been some great articles written about things women say that undermine our credibility.
Do a few of these phrases already come to mind for you? Have you stopped using them? Is “I promise” one of them?
One of the phrases that caught my eye and made me rethink some of my own language is using “just” when speaking, “I just want to share…” or “Just think about it…” Now when I catch myself saying it or writing it, I do my best to re-phrase.
Credibility Killers
There are quite a few other phrases I coach my clients to stop using in their sales conversations and emails. These phrases diminish the chances of people wanting to know more, engage with you, and certainly buy from you. They are so heavily used that I decided to create a training dedicated to what to say instead. This training will be a part of the September 26, 2019 Master Class: The Language of Sales: How To Have More Influence In Conversations.
There is one phrase, in particular, that is used by women (and children) and it's a total credibility killer. As an avid podcast listener and a consumer of personal and professional development, I love to learn from other women. When I hear experts using this phrase, I cringe (in full transparency, I've caught myself saying it too). The goal of sharing it with you is to encourage you to get it out of your sales conversations. There is no reason to use it. It's a throw-away line and it sounds childish in a business conversation.
The phrase is…
“I promise”
How many times have you heard or said:
“I promise, you are making a good decision.”
Or, “I promise, your information is secure.”
“I promise, you'll notice a difference when you implement these techniques.”
“I promise (fill in the rest of the sentence).”
None of these sentences are stronger with the “I promise” phrase added in. Read the statements again with “I promise” deleted. They work perfectly without it.
“You are making a good decision.”
“Your information is secure.”
“You'll notice a difference when you implement these techniques.”
It Means Nothing When You Say “I Promise”
What does “I promise” even mean or guarantee? It's like saying, “If I'm being honest.” Should the prospect/client assume that if you don't promise or use the word honest that you're lying the rest of the time? These throw-away statements diminish the point you are making. There is no need for them, therefore leave them unsaid.
“I Promise” Is Not Credible
Be credible when talking and writing. Stand in your expertise and make statements that are true. That is what prospects/clients want from you.
Wishing you continued success in your sales conversations.
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