"You know that sinking feeling when you realize you've been using a phrase that makes you sound less intelligent than you actually are? I had one of those moments a few years back during a pitch meeting for my startup. I was presenting to potential investors, and I kept saying "I think" before every point I made. "I think our user acquisition strategy will work.""
"When you constantly preface your statements with "I think" or "I feel like," you're essentially telling people you're not confident in what you're saying. You're hedging your bets, creating an escape route in case someone challenges you. There's a massive difference between "I think we should pivot our strategy" and "We should pivot our strategy." The second version sounds decisive. It sounds like you've done your homework and you're ready to stand behind your words."
An investor's feedback about repeatedly prefacing statements with 'I think' revealed how hedging language signals uncertainty and weakens credibility in high-stakes situations. Psychology indicates that specific word choices shape perceptions of intelligence and competence. Declarative phrasing like 'We should pivot our strategy' conveys decisiveness and preparedness, while hedges create escape routes and reduce persuasive impact. Expressing genuine uncertainty remains appropriate when warranted, but known information and recommendations should be stated clearly and owned. Common filler words such as 'like' and 'you know' further dilute messages and undermine professional polish.
Read at Silicon Canals
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