Three Keywords to Unlock WhatYou Want

To speak poorly,abrasively, or even

incorrectly, could put fortha perceived image that

may tarnish the reputationsaid entrepreneur has, oryou have, worked so hardto build in the first place.Although seemingly unfairthat something as simpleas a momentary lapse invocabulary or grammaticalunderstanding could affecta reputation that has takenso much work to build, itis the simple truth that,literally, a single wordcould ruin a lifetime of

work.

That said, there are afew words, inparticular, that

entrepreneurs (orthose managing

people at all, really)should make good useof while they speak,because they allow

motivatedentrepreneurs, oragain, you, to get

what they (you) wantwithout stepping onanyone’s toes, to getthe job done withouthurting anyone’s

feelings:

"Because"

The word “because” forces us to provide anexplanation for our request. By explaining

the underlying motivation for your request,you are providing the subject in question

with a reason to do what you want them todo. As Robert Cialdini describes in his book,“because” lays down the foundation for aformulaic “request+reason” remark that

makes whomever you are asking a favor of tobe more inclined to grant said favor.

"Thanks"Manners. Politeness. Graciousness. The word “thanks” illustrates an appreciation for whomever you are speakingwith. Thus, if you begin a conversation with it, you are starting things off on a good note. By displaying you willundoubtedly be very thankful for whatever you are asking for, you are essentially giving the person in questionanother reason to help you out, because it will make you happy (which isn’t always reason enough, but it certainly

can’t hurt). Not to mention, “thanks” exudes a positive tone that is likely to benefit your end of things in theconversation.

"Together"

By saying “together,” you are establishing a sense ofcamaraderie. You are fostering a sense of unity, of collaborationand of hopefully corroboration. By cultivating this implication of,well, togetherness, you are strengthening your relationship, and

thus are strengthening the argument behind your request.

There are many words in the Englishlanguage that should be regularly

incorporated into daily conversationand these are but a few.

While it may seem superficial that something as basic asword choice can actually determine your relationship with a

human being that you see every day, that is no reason toneglect word choice's potential impact on workplaceefficiency, culture, and what really matters, success.