TL;DR: 7 Phrases to Build Trust and Ease Tension in Business Communication
Smart communication can transform tense business conversations into genuine, trust-filled connections. Use these seven scientifically proven phrases:
• “That makes sense” to validate others’ perspectives.
• “I don’t know enough about that” to show humility and invite collaboration.
• “Tell me more about that” to encourage deeper dialogue.
• “I’ve been there too” to express empathy authentically.
• “What do you think?” to foster inclusion and balance.
• “No worries” to eliminate tension and guilt.
• “Thank you for sharing that” to encourage openness and trust.
Practicing these simple yet powerful techniques can create real connections and improve business outcomes. Start small by trying one phrase per week and notice the impact.
Imagine this scenario: you’re at a crucial business networking event, and the room is charged with tension. Faces are stiff with polite smiles, and conversations feel overly formal. You approach someone, use one of the smart communication phrases you’ve learned, and BAM, their defenses drop. Instead of stiff replies, you hear genuine laughter, relaxed tones, and suddenly, it’s easy to connect. Sound like magic?
This isn’t magic, it’s science. According to a Scientific American study, choosing the right words and tone can significantly alter how people perceive you. For entrepreneurs like me, communication isn’t just about conveying a message, it’s about dissolving barriers between people. And trust me, in the entrepreneurship world where high-pressure deals are made over coffee and dinner meetings, knowing how to make others relax is the difference between connecting authentically and hearing lukewarm agreements with no follow-through.
Why communication matters in high-stakes scenarios
Business communication is often riddled with unspoken power dynamics: Who’s dominating the conversation? Who feels authentic, and who’s coming across as rehearsed? For entrepreneurs, this is critical. When potential investors or partners feel relaxed around you, they trust you more, and according to Forbes, trust predicates buy-in. Whether you’re pitching your next unicorn startup or negotiating a client deal, your ability to lower the tension is key to achieving better results.
The phrases I’m about to share are rooted in psychology and neuroscience and have been battle-tested through years of interacting in high-stakes environments. Let’s get straight to them.
What are the 7 phrases that make people relax?
- “That makes sense.” This phrase validates the other person without judgment. People often fear being misunderstood or dismissed, and this phrase reassures them that their perspective is heard.
- “I don’t know enough about that.” Showing humility fosters trust. Rather than pretending to have all the answers, admitting your limits invites collaboration and exploration together.
- “Tell me more about that.” A simple yet potent phrase to spark deeper conversations. It shows curiosity and makes the other party feel valued.
- “I’ve been there too.” Expressing empathy humanizes you and melts away hierarchical barriers, as long as it’s said sincerely.
- “What do you think?” People love to feel included. Asking for their insight shifts the dynamic from self-centered monologue to a balanced and collaborative conversation.
- “No worries.” When people apologize, replying “No worries” signals generosity rather than simply forgiving them. It eliminates guilt and tension instantly.
- “Thank you for sharing that.” Acknowledge their vulnerability positively. This subtly encourages more openness without rushing to solutions.
What makes these phrases work?
These phrases are not random, they tap directly into how our brains react in social interactions. According to Psychology Today, validation increases oxytocin levels (known as the “trust hormone”), fostering connection. Similarly, showing vulnerability, as in “I don’t know enough about that,” diffuses the fear of judgment and creates mutual openness.
Entrepreneurs often navigate high-stakes settings, and pressure can lead to stiff or overly rehearsed interactions. By choosing language that signals safety and authenticity, you can transcend typical power dynamics, and move conversations toward genuine rapport.
Examples: Applying the phrases in real scenarios
- Investors: During a presentation, say: “That makes sense,” when addressing a concern, affirming their view without being defensive.
- Team Building: Use “Tell me more about that,” when an employee suggests a new approach to a problem. This demonstrates curiosity, not dismissal.
- Conflict Resolution: Reply “No worries,” after someone apologizes for missing a deadline to remove tension and encourage accountability.
How to start mastering smart communication techniques
Mastering smart communication begins with intentional practice. Here’s a roadmap you can follow:
- Reflect: Audit your current conversational habits and notice where tension often arises.
- Practice: Start small, use one phrase per week and observe its impact on interactions.
- Study: Learn additional communication strategies and psychology fundamentals from resources like Harvard Business Review.
- Get Feedback: Ask peers or mentors for honest opinions about how your presence makes others feel.
- Iterate: Communication isn’t static; adjust your approach as you become more adept in creating connection.
What mistakes should you avoid?
- Overusing phrases: Repeatedly saying “That makes sense” or “No worries” can make it sound robotic, a practiced balance works better.
- Insincerity: Never use “I’ve been there too” if you haven’t, it can come across manipulative.
- Ignoring body language: Smart phrases aren’t standalone; pair them with open gestures or relaxed posture.
- Skipping context: Make sure the timing of these phrases feels natural and appropriate to the situation.
Smart communication is only effective when built on authentic intention, otherwise, you risk undermining trust rather than building it.
Conclusion: Why your words matter
Words are a bridge, or a barrier. By incorporating these phrases, entrepreneurs can navigate even challenging scenarios with poise, authenticity, and grace. Imagine deals solidifying over coffee conversations that started with “Tell me more about that,” or teams trusting you more because you use “What do you think?” Small shifts in language can lead to monumental changes in relationships, trust, and professional outcomes.
Start small and practice intentionally. As I’ve experienced firsthand, smart communication isn’t just about success, it’s about connecting on a deeply human level. That’s where business thrives and where relationships truly begin.
FAQ about Smart Communication Phrases
What are smart communication phrases, and why are they important?
Smart communication phrases are carefully chosen verbal expressions designed to ease tension, foster trust, and improve connection during conversations. They help break down barriers and create a more relaxed and authentic social dynamic. These phrases leverage principles of psychology, neuroscience, and empathy to make the speaker relatable and credible, regardless of the setting. For instance, phrases like “That makes sense” or “Tell me more about that” validate, encourage openness, and establish mutual respect.
Explore a Scientific American study on communication phrases
How can entrepreneurs use these phrases to succeed?
In the high-pressure world of entrepreneurship, communication is pivotal in building trust with prospective partners, investors, and clients. Smart phrases like “What do you think?” ensure stakeholders feel included in discussions, while “No worries” can instantly defuse tension in sensitive moments. Whether pitching a startup or resolving conflicts in a team, mastering the right language can mean the difference between a failed negotiation and a lasting partnership.
Learn about Forbes insights on trust and buy-in
How do these phrases affect the human brain?
According to Psychology Today, affirmation words like “That makes sense” or “Thank you for sharing that” trigger oxytocin release in the brain. Oxytocin, known as the “trust hormone,” promotes relaxation and bonding. Simultaneously, showing humility or vulnerability, such as with “I don’t know enough about that,” reduces perceived hierarchies, allaying fears of judgment. These neurological effects make such phrases powerful tools in emotionally charged interactions.
Discover how validation impacts trust with Psychology Today
In what situations can these phrases be applied?
These phrases are versatile and can be used in professional and personal contexts. For example, “Tell me more about that” is valuable in team-building scenarios to show curiosity and respect for ideas. “No worries” can ease tension during apologetic exchanges in conflict resolution. Similarly, using “Thank you for sharing that” during personal conversations encourages openness and fosters emotional safety in relationships.
Can these phrases help reduce social anxiety?
Yes, smart communication phrases are an excellent tool for managing social anxiety. They offer conversational “lifelines” that maintain flow and reduce awkwardness. For example, saying “I don’t know enough about that” removes the need to appear fully knowledgeable and shifts the dialogue to exploration. Over time, using such phrases can build confidence and enhance authentic connections in social settings.
What mistakes should I avoid when using these phrases?
Overusing or misapplying these phrases can make them seem manipulative or insincere. For instance, repeating “That makes sense” in every response might come across as robotic. Additionally, phrases like “I’ve been there too” should be avoided unless you genuinely relate to the other person’s experience. Pairing these phrases with open body language and appropriate timing ensures they remain effective and authentic.
Can these phrases improve workplace dynamics?
Absolutely. Employing phrases like “What do you think?” during meetings creates a collaborative, inclusive atmosphere, improving trust and morale. Similarly, validating team members with “That makes sense” or encouraging deeper discussion with “Tell me more about that” can enhance engagement, innovation, and mutual understanding within a workplace.
Discover techniques from Harvard Business Review
How can I practice using smart communication phrases?
Intentional practice is key. Start by reflecting on existing habits to identify areas of improvement. Implement one phrase at a time during conversations and note how others react. Seek feedback from friends or colleagues to refine usage. Exploring resources like neuroscience-backed strategies adds depth to your practice.
Learn effective communication techniques on Silicon Canals
What are examples of using these phrases professionally?
In a business pitch, responding with “That makes sense,” to an investor’s concern shows empathy and understanding without defensiveness. Asking “What do you think?” during strategy meetings invites collaboration while validating colleagues’ expertise. “No worries” can diffuse tension in stressful situations like a missed deadline, maintaining trust while reducing guilt.
Where can I find more in-depth resources on smart communication?
Check out books such as Lachlan Brown’s “Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego,” or explore journals on neuroscience and psychology for deeper insights into affirmational communication. Online platforms like Silicon Canals feature articles tailored to improving communication skills specifically within professional and entrepreneurial settings.
Explore Lachlan Brown’s book on Amazon
About the Author
Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur. Throughout her startup experience she has applied for multiple startup grants at the EU level, in the Netherlands and Malta, and her startups received quite a few of those. She’s been living, studying and working in many countries around the globe and her extensive multicultural experience has influenced her immensely.
Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).
She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the “gamepreneurship” methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond, launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks and is building MELA AI to help local restaurants in Malta get more visibility online.
For the past several years Violetta has been living between the Netherlands and Malta, while also regularly traveling to different destinations around the globe, usually due to her entrepreneurial activities. This has led her to start writing about different locations and amenities from the point of view of an entrepreneur. Here’s her recent article about the best hotels in Italy to work from.