Ever been boggled down by a boss that keeps “but-ing” you? “That’s a great idea, but…” or “Yes, but…” It can be discouraging. As a leader of any team, you want to ensure you’re facilitating a healthy, positive workplace environment – one that encourages your employees to produce their best work. 

The Power of Positive Language

A simple linguistic tweak can truly change the dynamics of an entire conversation. When “but” is used, it often negates everything that’s been said before it, which can deflate enthusiasm and stifle creativity. That’s why we suggest using the term “and” as an effective replacement. “And” suggests agreement and continuation rather than contradiction, which may increase morale among employees and peers. 

Remember – it’s not what you say, it’s how you say it, no “buts” about it!

Real-World Applications

In practical scenarios, this shift in language from “but” to “and” can lead to more productive discussions and innovative solutions. 

Take budget constraints as an example – responding with “Yes, that’s a great idea, AND we need to think about how we can fund it” keeps the conversation open and collaborative, inviting others to contribute solutions rather than shutting down the discussion. “Yes, that’s a great idea, BUT we don’t have the budget for it,” shuts down the conversation and doesn’t leave room for improvement. The person may think that you didn’t actually like their idea and that you’re patronizing them. 

Switching “But” with “And” in Workplace Communication Promotes Better Teamwork and Innovation

Overcoming “But” in the Workplace: Strategies to Incorporate “And”

• Understanding the Impact: Recognize how the word “but” can negatively affect conversations by dismissing previous statements. Awareness is the first step in changing your communication habits.

• Practice and Mindfulness: Regularly practice replacing “but” with “and” in your conversations. This can be done through role-playing exercises or by pausing to rephrase your thoughts before speaking during meetings.

• Reframe the Conversation: Transform a potentially negative interaction by shifting your language. Instead of saying, “That’s a good idea, but it’s too complex to implement with our current technology,” you could say, “that’s a good idea, and it gives us a reason to explore new technological solutions that could make it feasible.” 

• Encouragement and Training: Encourage team members to use “and” through workshops or training sessions. Highlighting the benefits of positive language can motivate others to make similar changes.

• Feedback Loops: Create an environment where colleagues can provide feedback on each other’s communication styles in a constructive manner. This could be part of regular performance reviews or as part of a dedicated session on improving team communication.

Making the Change

Facilitate an environment that excites employees to pitch new ideas and makes them feel welcomed and heard by making this subtle, yet effective change. Then watch for any changes, you’ll notice your less-than excited, always tired employees will turn into go-getters! 

You can explore more effective communication strategies and improvisation techniques through ImprovEdge programming.

 

This article is 100% written by a human named Karen Hough. She is the Founder & CEO of ImprovEdge, in the top 4% of women-owned businesses in the US, a 3-time Amazon bestselling author, Yale grad, wife, and mom of three.