Mind your language

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I’m at an age where I’ve seen a lot of differences in language and word interpretation, some that are absolutely too rude or shocking to write down. I worked with an AI organisation about 20 years ago, but it didn’t have anything to do with artificial intelligence and everything to do with artificial insemination. These days, things should be simpler, as people can express themselves and be themselves much more easily – and hopefully with greater acceptance. But because of multiple meanings and interpretations, it can make it difficult for some people to communicate, for fear of getting things wrong and offending others.

I do find that it’s useful to make it clear to people that I may not know all the terms people are using or that I understand them, for example within an LGBTQ+ context. But I would like to ask questions, if they are happy with that, so I can learn. I also do always emphasise that if I do get anything wrong, it isn’t malicious or intended to offend. Many terms may be open to interpretation and it is often the case that not everyone can be familiar with every single term that is the acceptable one. The reverse is also true and many words that were perfectly acceptable for many years now have very negative connotations, for example around gender or culture. It is important to ensure that – especially in business – you create an inclusive, friendly environment.

A welcoming place

The inclusivity aspect is perhaps the most important aspect of working environment culture these days. So much has been spoken about remote working, the fear of returning to working premises again and the many barriers to getting people back into the office and collaborating in person once again. Workplace culture has to be welcoming and inclusive, and the way everyone speaks to one another is key to this – friendly language, the correct terms and amiable but professional behaviour. In this way, companies can be inclusive and tolerant, as well as efficient and productive.

The art of language can be difficult, but it should never become a barrier.  As somebody who speaks and writes to people daily, I don’t want to be stymied or constricted for fear of offence. Until you are fully aware of someone’s circumstances, particularly online, then it may be easy to cause unintentional offence – this may be most apparent with the many different terms for gender currently in use, for instance, and their preferred pronouns.

Open to interpretation

On the flipside, I find many people in Gen Z, for example, don’t know the terms that they use freely now were actually offensive back in the 1980s. It’s all about context too and tone of voice. If it’s obvious something has been said in jest, it’s often masked or excused as ‘banter’. But if someone takes offence at something that has been said entirely inadvertently, then it is hoped that a genuine error can be acknowledged. It’s important in these circumstances that the same mistake isn’t made again and that lessons are learned. Language can be a minefield and of course, in business, you’re not necessarily working with people you know well. It’s a learning curve, but one that will ensure that the true meaning of what we want to say is articulated in the way we want to say it.

Fear of rejection

Confidence isn’t something we all innately possess, but it is something we can build up over time. Our self-confidence has an enormous impact on how we go about work and how we interact with people, in life and in our workplace. It’s also an important part of our online presence. We can perhaps project a much more confident persona via an online platform such as LinkedIn. But confidence can be eroded and all kinds of impacts – job uncertainty, criticism, mental health – can easily affect levels of confidence.

Risky situations

Depending on your personal confidence, we all experience the flipside of this too – that is the fear of rejection. This can be something in all aspects of our lives that holds us back. That first step forward, reaching out to someone, is a leap of faith. You’re putting yourself into a situation you have no control over and it can go one of two ways. But the important thing to remember is, don’t worry too much about reaching out to people – either in person or through LinkedIn. People are generally flattered to be approached for advice or recommendations. If it is in person, there are many factors that can influence a person’s decision to engage – demeanour, manner, appearance, articulation and confidence.

Getting connected

Is it more difficult to reject an approach in person? Probably, as the person is present and the situation is real. There’s a certain anonymity to online interactions that you just don’t get in person. When it comes to online platforms versus in-person, it’s a slightly different situation. Allow your presence on LinkedIn be your leverage to connect to people. This can be someone you have already met in person – via a networking event, a mutual connection or social gathering. Or it could be someone who is completely new to you via an online platform. The advantage of connecting with someone online is that your professional credentials are readily apparent and visible, via your associated profile and resumé.

Reaping rewards

Sometimes we reach out to people because we think we can be of use to them, and of course, sometimes we reach out to them because they might be beneficial to us. Whatever the motive, the crucial thing is to do it with confidence and without the dread of rejection at the forefront of your mind. If you set out with negative thoughts and a fear of failure, then it is more likely that is what will happen, as a kind of self-fulfilling prophecy.

When you are connecting with new people – either online or in person – don’t open the conversation with asking them to do things for you. Think carefully about your approach. Soft conversations are important. That way, people will understand and know what you are looking for. Then a subsequent offer of help might follow as a result. One thing it is worth remembering about the fear of rejection – which might help to boost your confidence. The rewards far outweigh the risks.

There’s no such thing as an informal chat

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In today’s working world, people seem generally to be incredibly busy – all the time. It is immaterial as to whether this is a hangover from Covid and people are still trying to catch up, or if it is due to the much-publicised skills shortage, and there is just more work to do.  Whatever the reason, be assured, that being invited in for an informal chat about a job role is probably in reality, much more serious, and you need to be as prepared as if you were being invited in for a formal interview.

Time is precious

People are generally too busy to waste time, so regardless of how informal the invitation seems to be, there is often more to it. Any conversation you have, remember, the other person might be sizing you up – whether that is on your ability, your skills and knowledge or your cultural fit. Be prepared and be able to demonstrate – and wow them – with your knowledge and experience.

Picking up the non-verbal cues

Don’t forget, people unconsciously make judgements on you, from how you dress, through to your body language, so think about how you would like to be perceived and make sure that you behave accordingly. You don’t want to turn up in your casual clothes to then meet with someone in formal business attire. It’s not so much ‘dress to impress’, more dress appropriately for the situation.

There is debate about how much communication is non-verbal, with some people suggesting it is in excess of 80%, but what is commonly agreed, is that a substantial part of your communication is shared without words. Instead, it will come from your facial expressions or how you use your hands when you talk. Hand gestures can be very useful in helping to make specific points, or it could be things like tone of voice, eye contact, posture and physical proximity.

And, if after all this, the informal chat turns out to be just that, don’t be despondent, as you don’t know who they might go on to mention you to – or when another opportunity might present itself.

LinkedIn: Not just for job hunting

There is no denying that LinkedIn is a great tool for job hunting. An online CV is available at the click of a button and connections can be made with the profiles and companies that appeal for your next job. However, LinkedIn is a useful asset for everyday life. You can use it as a personal online Filofax ensuring your day-to-day tasks are achieved. LinkedIn is one of the most powerful tools for professionals looking to grow their business, advance their career or expand their networks.

Use LinkedIn regularly

LinkedIn estimates suggest a daily user base of over 100 million. With that amount of people available you need to ensure you are visible and this can be achieved by posting regularly. If you take advantage of LinkedIn algorithms by posting on a regular basis, your profile will become available to a wider audience and help with sourcing clients and new business. It’s all about engaging with others and that’s why LinkedIn was developed, by posting regularly and engaging with others, you can grow your network.

Keep profiles updated, better than a business card

A business card doesn’t really tell anybody about you, it’s usually just contact details. A LinkedIn profile not only tells someone your contact details but it’s a curriculum vitae and a life story in one. By showcasing your expertise and sharing content that resonates with your target audience you can really make an impact. Much better than handing out a business card with your name on it!

Help when applying for new job roles

LinkedIn is a fantastic resource for applying for new job roles. You can make sure your LinkedIn profile stays relevant. Posting on LinkedIn can demonstrate your accomplishments, your values and ultimately lead to new opportunities. LinkedIn is a modern way of keeping a rolodex of connections, ensuring you find the important people needed for furthering your career or business. You can research any company and find the rights contacts for you.

Keep up to date

Potential recruiters will pay attention to your skills, so you need to keep this information up to date and make sure all the relevant information is on there. If a search is done on your name on a search engine the chances are LinkedIn will come up first. Make sure any posts you have on there are relevant and share your capabilities and ideas.

Sue Thomas, Director at Career Evolution says, “I always take the time to remind my clients that they need to update their profile as soon as they start their new job. A new employer won’t be impressed to look at a new recruit’s profile and not see it updated.”

 

Recommendations for recommendations on LinkedIn

A LinkedIn recommendation is a type of professional reference that is clearly displayed on your LinkedIn profile and can be seen by potential customers, future employers and recruitment agents. If you want to build your professional profile on LinkedIn, it’s great to have recommendations from people you have worked with closely over the course of your career.

Asking for a recommendation may feel a little awkward so it is important to make it as straightforward as possible for the person you are asking. Make sure you are specific about what you would like to be recommended for, whether it was a particular project you were involved with, or perhaps a particular skill you demonstrated or results you achieved. Make it clear you are not looking for hundreds of words, just a few lines.

Providing a LinkedIn recommendation is a good way to express genuine appreciation of someone’s work, especially if you have ‘gone the extra mile’ on their behalf. So don’t worry too much about asking for one; many people are flattered to be approached for a recommendation and are glad to be of assistance.

Don’t assume, ask again

Don’t assume that once you’ve asked for a recommendation that you will automatically get one. You can always send another request and then perhaps a reminder after a few weeks have gone by but if it doesn’t happen, don’t continue to chase it up as that will simply come across as being a nuisance.

Remember, when you are looking for a new job, one of the first things a potential employer will do is to check out your activity on social media, especially LinkedIn. Some good recommendations on your profile will really help build up a positive impression of your work life. If you have made recommendations too, that shows that you are keen to acknowledge another person’s hard work and professional contribution, which will do you no harm in a potential employer’s eyes either.

A word of warning about LinkedIn recommendations

If someone asks you to recommend them and you don’t actually rate their work particularly highly, don’t just make up something positive to say. It’s better not to provide a recommendation at all than provide a false one. Also, just as with any kind of personal reference, don’t be tempted to recommend someone you don’t really know or haven’t actually worked with, as this is all too likely to come back to bite you at some point further down the line.