Can hedging make you a better communicator?
"People hedge all the time," says Wharton marketing professor Jonah Berger. "Whether we are talking to a boss or a colleague, a salesperson talking to a client, a marketer trying to pitch something or even talking to family members, we often say things like 'That could work' or '
Hedging, a linguistic phenomenon where speakers soften their language to avoid directness or commitment, is a ubiquitous aspect of human communication. As Professor Jonah Berger notes, it's a common occurrence in various professional and personal interactions. In the context of engineering, effective communication is crucial for project success, collaboration, and stakeholder management. Engineers often need to convey complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders, and hedging can be a useful tool in this regard.
However, excessive hedging can undermine the credibility and confidence of engineers, particularly when presenting technical solutions or pitching ideas. By using phrases like "That could work" or "I'm not sure, but," engineers may inadvertently convey uncertainty or lack of conviction. This can be detrimental in high-stakes situations, such as presenting to investors or clients, where confidence and authority are essential. Berger's work suggests that being aware of hedging patterns can help engineers become more effective communicators, striking a balance between clarity and tact.
As engineers navigate complex projects and collaborations, developing effective communication strategies is critical. To watch next: how engineers can adapt their communication styles to different audiences and contexts, and what role awareness of hedging can play in building confidence and credibility. By understanding the dynamics of hedging and its impact on communication, engineers can refine their skills to convey technical expertise while building strong relationships with stakeholders.
Originally reported by phys.org. EngineeringNews adds analysis for science & discovery readers.