Think Before You Speak and Avoid Apologies Altogether

The need to apologize gives emphasis to the fact ‘think before you speak’ was not put into statements or actions. No matter which political party you have allegiance with, we may each learn from the political scene in motion.

It’s very noticeable that Kellyanne Conway disappeared from the media, and Sean Spicer had to apologize to the media. The real apology should be made, but is unfortunately far too late, to the many millions of people who died in the gas chambers during World War II.

Recovery from their errors will never be 100% and their careers are less likely to energetically move forward. Newscasters and folks on Twitter are now tallying “Pinocchio” statements for those in the news. Counting the lies being told is in full force in addition to becoming a game. In the business world, no one lasts long when lies are detected

Trust is the soul of sales.


Over time, I learned to stop for a moment to consider all sides to a question. I ask for perspective from the person asking so that I may deliver a more targeted answer. We each need to remember that it is our personal brand at stake every time we speak.

When difficult questions arise, it is in our best interest to do the following:

  • Answer what we know to be true
  • Ask for more information as appropriate
  • Defer those questions until adequate research may be done.
  • On job interviews or in client meetings, many times we are asked questions that leave us stumbling. In these instances, I ask, “Please provide insight as to why you are asking so that I may give you an improved response.” Doing so provides an improved perspective and then I know how to answer in a way that will satisfy the question.

    Client Meetings


    Whenever a question is asked for which we do not know the answer, it is always best to honestly say, “I don’t know,” or “I need to research the facts before I provide a detailed answer”. Doing so establishes respect and serious consideration of doing business.

    Reputation Management


    In today’s online world, our reputations precede us. Yes, the right thing to do is to apologize when a blunder is made. But it’s even better to stop and think about what’s being asked and how to approach the answer to avoid the blunder in its entirety.

    On the honesty meter, how would you rate yourself?


    Have you:

  • “Fudged” answers on job interviews
  • Misled prospective clients in meetings
  • Added extras to your resume that should be erased?
  • Any doubt whatsoever about your actions is an intuitive feel that change is in order. The problem with not being wholly truthful is that stress comes into play. You worry about how things will work out and then create an entirely new host of problems with which to concern yourself.

    From this point forward, do the opposite of what we are currently hearing in the news. Take the pledge to avoid Pinocchio messaging and to instead tell the truth. It makes life easier and clients will appreciate you all the more.

    Sales Tips

  • Think before you speak
  • Avoid having to apologize
  • Ask the reasoning behind difficult questions
  • After answering difficult questions, inquire if the answer was satisfactory
  • Admit when you do not understand terminology.
  • Suggest time be allowed for you to research additional information.
  • Ask for timelines to provide requested details.
  • Deliver your researched answers before the deadline.
  • Gain agreement that everything was delivered in good order.
  • Celebrate success!