How Speaking with Confidence Can Elevate Your Professional Performance, According to Dane Tang

In a recent LinkedIn post, Dane Tang explores how the language we use can significantly impact our perceived competence and professional standing. Tang, a proponent of confident communication, argues that subtle shifts in phrasing can dramatically alter how colleagues and superiors respond to our work and contributions.

Tang begins by reflecting on his own past communication habits, noting a tendency to overuse apologetic and tentative language. He explains that phrases like “I think,” “I’ll try,” or “I’m just reaching out…” can undermine confidence, even when delivering high-quality work. This self-awareness led him to a key realization:

“Top performers don’t just do things well. They talk in a way that shows they’ve got it handled.”

This core principle forms the basis of Tang’s advice, which centers on replacing common, confidence-eroding phrases with more assertive and clear alternatives. He presents a list of 12 such transformations, designed to project greater assurance and capability.

The Power of Phrasing in Professional Interactions

Tang’s analysis highlights the direct correlation between language and perceived performance. He points out that even minor verbal tics can create an impression of hesitancy or uncertainty. By consciously adopting more confident language, individuals can reshape how their efforts are received.

Replacing Tentative Language with Assured Statements

A significant portion of Tang’s post is dedicated to providing actionable alternatives to common phrases that signal a lack of confidence. For instance, he suggests moving away from apologies for minor inconveniences.

“Sorry for the delay.”

can be effectively replaced with

“Thanks so much for your patience.”

This shift, according to Tang, acknowledges the other person’s time while framing the situation constructively. Similarly, admitting a lack of immediate knowledge can be reframed from a potentially negative

“I don’t know.”

to a proactive

“I’ll find out and update you shortly.”

This demonstrates a commitment to resolution rather than simply stating a current limitation.

Strategies for Projecting Competence

Tang further elaborates on how specific linguistic choices can signal ownership and capability. Phrases that imply a lack of responsibility or an unwillingness to engage are particularly detrimental. He contrasts:

“That’s not my job.”

with the more collaborative and solution-oriented

“Let me connect you to who handles this.”

This approach, as outlined by Tang, fosters a more helpful and efficient work environment.

He also addresses the common tendency to downplay suggestions or ideas with prefacing remarks like “This might be silly, but…” Tang advocates for presenting ideas directly, suggesting

“Here’s something we could explore.”

instead. This framing invites consideration without preemptively diminishing the value of the contribution.

Cultivating Calm and Clarity

Ultimately, Tang’s message is one of empowerment through communication. He emphasizes that the goal isn’t perfection but rather a consistent practice of speaking with “calm and clarity.” By internalizing and regularly employing these more confident communication strategies, individuals can foster greater trust and respect in their professional interactions.

Tang concludes by encouraging readers to reflect on their own speech patterns and to begin practicing these techniques daily, suggesting that consistent effort will lead to noticeable improvements in how their contributions are perceived.