"Always" and "never" - the connection killers at work

Mar 14, 2025 6:16 am

Workplace Multiplier by Tola Akinsulire


March 14, 2025

Welcome to the Workplace Multiplier newsletter. Published Monday to Friday, equipping you to achieve your professional goals faster and without burnout or overwhelm by leveraging The Triple Win Method.




"Always" and "never" - the connection killers at work


Howdy ,


"They never listen to my ideas."

 

Statements like this - what I call "barbed language" - reveal more about your values than you might realize.

 

When you use absolutes like "always" or "never" in workplace conversations, you're not just making an inaccurate statement. You're showing that your brand doesn't fully embrace the value of respect.

 

For example, as a team leader, you can transform how your team meets deadlines by shifting from "Why don't you ever meet deadlines?" to "I've noticed the last three deliverables were delivered late. What obstacles are you facing?"

 

Same concern, completely different values message.

 

Your language reveals whether you truly value others as complex human beings worthy of nuanced understanding.

 

It is probably one of the more challenging things I had to learn to master at work. I learned to address every issue on a case-by-case matter.

 

Instead of using generalizations, I am committed to giving specific feedback on the matter at hand.

 

Today's value challenge: Replace any "always/never" statements with specific observations.

 

Watch how this simple shift builds your credibility and strengthens relationships.

 

Fellow Workplace Multiplier,

 

You can win at work and in life.

 

Tola Akinsulire

Your Strategic Workplace Mentor


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Want to get in on some of the lessons I have picked up in my career? Get my eBook "21 Lessons I Learned in My Career - A Primer to Help You Become Better at Work". Get it here



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