And how replacing ambiguity with decisive language can enhance your leadership communication 

Have you noticed how frequently the word “maybe” is used in day-to-day communication? 

“Maybe we could talk to the client.”

“Maybe we could try it this way.”

“Maybe you could submit this by the end of the week.”

“Maybe we could look at your performance and discuss next steps?”

“I think maybe I could look into that.”

We’ve come to adopt, subconsciously, the use of “maybe” as a standard, as an inclusive, non-threatening and collaborative way of communicating with others. I’d like to challenge that and contend that using this word too frequently dilutes your message, as well as your leadership abilities.

If you’re a leader and would like to enhance your awareness of, and turn the dial a notch on, the way you influence others, I’d like to share one simple hack to enhance your communication, thereby achieving better results. 

Let me give you an example first of how “maybe” can undermine one’s ability to deliver a message. One of my clients, a manager at a Crown corporation, recently shared that she wasn’t getting results from her team, and that they were not following through on her instructions.

Well, it turns out that many of those instructions began with the word “maybe”. “Maybe you could pick this up.” “Maybe it would be good to finish this by the end of this week”.  Consequently, as you may guess, things were not done, and the deadlines were not met. 

Think about it: “Maybe” equals ambivalence, it stands for potentially doing something – or not.  “Maybe” signals that either you don’t really care, that you’re not really sure and that you’re not willing to stand firmly behind your decision. Either way, it sends conflicting messages and waters down your intention. 

As a leader, you need to be assertive and communicate clarity, not only for yourself, but also for the sake of the people you’re serving.

Ask yourself “What do I want?” or “What do I need in order to serve my organization?”  Then fully stand behind it and articulate your needs accordingly. 

So instead of “maybe”, why not try the following?

“I’d like you to talk to the client.”

“Even though I see your point, I prefer to try it this way first.”

“I expect this by the end of the week”

“Let’s look at your work load and explore some alternatives.”

“I will look into that.”

Being this assertive could initially feel harsh or bossy, but referring back to the example from my client, I can confirm that it produced the desired outcome – the team delivered. (And nobody hated her for it).

Ultimately, leaders need to make decisions to achieve organizational needs and serve their clients. Clarity, as well as decisiveness towards those on the receiving end of your communication is of paramount importance to achieve these needs.  Absence of clarity gives rise to confusion, delays, disengagement and lack of trust. 

Speaking assertively and standing behind it takes courage, as well as an openness to risk-taking.  But isn’t that what leadership is all about?

So leave the ambiguity behind, let go of those “maybes” and see the results unfold. Maybe…you’ll even surprise yourself!

For more information on my Leadership Communication Coaching, please contact Sylvia at sylvialarrass.com