Eternal Magical Words?-?Part?II

Before you start reading, I would highly recommend you to read my earlier article published titled: Magical Words that create Conducive Work Environment and then continue reading the following. Needless to say, that there’s a clear line between demanding respect and earning it. It all comes down to how do we communicate with others. Commanding respect often involves asserting dominance, concealing our real intentions. Earning respect, however, it is all about transparency and influence. It’s about presenting ourselves in a way that allows others to regard us highly and willingly.

Let’s always remember that certain words and phrases in our lives can help us earn respect without imposing it. Here are 5 more phrases and these are not mere words, they’re a ticket to instant admiration.

1. I understand Your Viewpoint

Be it our personal or professional lives, empathy is a powerful tool. It’s not just about understanding other people’s emotions?—?it’s about reflecting that understanding back to them. This is where the phrase “I understand your perspective” comes in handy. It’s simple, yet incredibly effective. When we express understanding towards someone else’s point of view, we’re respecting them. It means we’ve taken the time to listen and we value their thoughts, even if we don’t necessarily agree.

But here’s the catch?—?we need to mean it when we say it. Authenticity is key here. People can tell when we’re genuinely trying to understand them, and when we’re just going through the motions. So, let’s take the time to really listen and understand?—?that’s where true respect is earned. This phrase is not just about making others feel heard; it’s also about earning their respect in return. So next time you’re in a conversation, give it a try.

2. I Value Your Contributions

Let me share a personal story to illustrate the power of this phrase. We all have some introverts in our respective teams. I had a few too. while working on a team project, I noticed one of my colleagues was unusually silent during our brainstorming sessions. I knew he was full of great ideas, but he seemed hesitant to share them. One day, I decided to approach him privately. “I value your input,” I told him. “You bring a unique perspective in our brainstorming sessions.”

The change was immediate. He started contributing more in meetings, and his ideas were indeed valuable. In using that phrase, I wasn’t just feeding him a line. I genuinely believed in his potential and wanted his contribution. And expressing that not only boosted his confidence but also earned me his respect. Everyone wants to feel valued and appreciated. When we express that we value someone’s input, it shows respect and fosters a positive relationship. So be generous with this phrase?—?it works wonders!

3. I Admire You

There’s something incredibly powerful in the phrase “I admire you”. People invest a great deal of time, effort, and passion into their work, and to have that acknowledged is not only affirming, but deeply respectful. When we admire someone’s work, we’re appreciating their skills, their dedication and their unique approach.

It shows that we’ve noticed their hard work and we don’t shy away about expressing our admiration. But remember, just as with the other phrases, authenticity is paramount. Empty compliments can feel hollow and insincere. So when we use this phrase, let’s make sure it’s backed by genuine admiration. It’s a classy way of showing respect and fostering a positive relationship.

4. Let’s Find A Solution?Together

The phrase “Let’s find a solution together” harnesses the power of collective problem-solving. It demonstrates respect for the ideas and abilities of our teams, and it fosters a sense of shared responsibility. When the team members feel that they are part of the solution, they are more invested in the outcome.

This is because being part of the solution-building process gives team members a sense of empowerment and ownership. This phrase works in professional settings, personal relationships, and even in resolving conflicts . It communicates that we’re not just dumping a problem on them, but we genuinely value their input in finding the best possible solution.

5. I’m Sorry, I Was?Wrong

Admitting when we’re wrong can be tough. It bruises the ego and can make us feel vulnerable. But, saying “I’m sorry, I was wrong” is one of the most respectable things a person can do. Years ago, I made a significant error at work that cost my team a lot of time and effort. It would have been easy to deflect blame or make excuses. Instead, I chose to own up to my mistake.

“I’m sorry, I was wrong,” I told them. The room fell silent. But then something unexpected happened?—?they appreciated my honesty and were willing to work with me to rectify the situation. That day, I learned that admitting when we’re wrong not only helps resolve issues faster but also builds a bond of trust and respect with others.

Summing it?up

Last but not the very least, let’s always remember that words and phrases shape our experiences and influence how we feel and connect with others. Positive language can uplift us and encourage cooperation, while negative or dismissive words can create tension or misunderstandings. Our choice of words, even when we’re busy or stressed, can make a big difference in fostering mutual respect and empathy in everyday exchanges.

Moreover, words are powerful tools for expressing support and appreciation, both for ourselves and others. Encouraging phrases like “You’re doing great” or “I trust your judgment” boost confidence and strengthen relationships by showing belief in each other’s abilities. Similarly, words of affirmation to ourselves, such as “I can handle this” or “I’m making progress,” help us maintain a positive outlook and resilience.?

Suggested Reading:

1. Choice of Words Matters!

2. Magical Words that Create Conducive Work Environment

About the?Author

Muhammad Sajwani is a C-Level HR, Transformation Leader, Board Advisor, Business Coach & Organisational Consultant and Managing Director, Evolve HR . He is an author, columnist and a contributor who besides writing for LinkedIn and Medium, also regularly writes for BizCatalyst 360 and has published around 500 articles. He brings along 30+ years of local & international experience. He is a change catalyst specializing in unleashing the human Dreamgenius through Leadership, Creativity and Change Management. Muhammad has been instrumental in helping organizations come to terms with organizational changes like right-sizing and business process re-engineering. His innovative approach & high personal competence encourages people to not only accept change, but also to excel in it. Muhammad has diverse experience in conducting strategic & management development programs, conferences & events for organisations across sectors. In recognition of his long outstanding services, Global HR Professionals?—?GHRP & Artificial Intelligence Community of Pakistan awarded him the “Lifetime Achievement Award” in the year 2024.