Words matter. High caliber communicators choose their words wisely. They seek to use the words that most accurately express what they are trying to convey. High caliber communicators know choosing the wrong word, misusing words, or even using “non-words” like “irregardless,” can undermine their credibility and impact career success.

On occasion, however, even good communicators can inadvertently undermine their credibility and success.  Have you ever said things such as:

            I’m anxious to see how this turns out?

            I’m anxious to get this project started?

            I’m anxious for the new system to be installed?

If so, you may be sending a message of fear, uncertainty, worry, and uneasiness.  And, if you are trying to inspire and lead, sending a message of anxiety is a poor choice.  Instead choose:

            I’m eager to see how this turns out.

            I’m eager to get this project started.

           I’m eager for the new system to be installed.

While anxious and eager are often considered synonymous, the message they send can be completely different. Using eager sends a message of excitement, positive anticipation, and energy.

Check yourself.  Are you saying anxious when you are actually eager?  Words matter. Choose yours wisely to be a high caliber communicator.

 For powerful communication resources, visit Pamela’s success store.

Pamela Jett is a communication skills and leadership expert who knows that words matter! In her keynote presentations, workshops, books and online learning programs, she moves beyond communication theory into practical strategies that can be implemented immediately to create the kind of leadership, teamwork, and employee engagement results her clients want.