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How not to sound weird when talking to authority?

151 Answers
Last Updated: 04/29/2022 at 3:27pm
How not to sound weird when talking to authority?
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
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Top Rated Answers
Anonymous
March 18th, 2020 4:49pm
When talking to authority you should be involved in the conversation! Make eye contact and show them that you are listening! Think about what you are going to say before you say it so that you know it sounds like it makes sense! Think about how it will sound when you say it! Make sure that it doesn't sound childish! Show the speaker that you are fully involved and focused in the conversation by giving them your full undivided attention! Show them the respect you want them to show you! Ask questions to make sure you understand what they are saying!
RichardRedacted
March 30th, 2020 1:10pm
This is probably just nerves. I'd suggest just trying to keep in mind that even though they are an authority figure they are still just a person. Just like you. Another thing you can try is just whenever you see an authority figure chat with them if you can. It will probably feel pretty weird at first but the more you do it the better you will be at it. I know it's easy to get intimated by some authority figures but they are just people trying to get through the day like everyone else. I hope this helps you :)
Anonymous
April 10th, 2020 6:25pm
You simply view view figures who exhibit Authority as no different than you intrinsically; not superior, nor possessng a Right of stepping into Your Power which you don't or wouldn't have. Authority Figures often inescapably confront us with our relationship to our inner way of Authority, as well as, most importantly, reflecting our innermost bond with and to the Authority of our Parents - our most trusted (for better or worse), yet at least most known Beacons of Authority. Thus upon further practical self-reflection you might come to find out that most of your issues with Authority, and how to deal with it; speak up to it, stem from your bond to your Father. -- How to not sound weird when speaking to Authority? Learn to begin respectfully standing up for yourself to your Mother or Father first. Or anyone else who most intimately around you fulfills that role. -- Much Love, And Much Encouragement(!) towards any of you who're endeavoring to muster the Courage to stand up in defiance of an abusive or unjust Authority Figure. If in need or want of tentative help here, Feel free to reach out to me, As I can rightly say I'm an expert on the matter here, Based on my Rich Personal Experience.
wonderfulShoulder5046
April 22nd, 2020 7:35pm
Based on my personal experience, when you talk to authority, such as teachers, principals, or other figures, its important to be respectful and confident in yourself. Set up a time to talk and when you're there, deliver your conversation while being clear and courteous. Say please and thank you, look them in the eye, have good posture, smile and have a respectful tone of voice. If they say something you don't agree with, offer your point of view while still being calm and collected. It is not always what you say, but how you say it. Remember that authority figures are people too, and that they just want to be respected and valued also.
richyShiny39
April 24th, 2020 9:02am
Be honest when talking to authority and polite and be yourself and then it depends on who you are talking with authority. Keep it professional and no personal emotions if you can unless you know this person will. And also you should make a note on what's weird to one person may not be weird to another person as long as you know jeez the proper etiquette of the year for your age . Try not to speak of her cheese statements and then wait for a reply. A person of authority doesn't make them better to judge you as being weird unless you are doing something that the authority consider weird behavior and I don't know what type of authority so I cannot say what would you need to be weird. Just be normal honest and yourself and I think you will do all right.
Anonymous
April 30th, 2020 12:32am
How would you want someone to talk to you if you were in a position of authority over them? In my case, I would prefer they treat me as someone who values their opinion and cares about them. Then they would respect my authority because they trust that I know what’s best for them and the group/company. If you’re doing your best to respect them and do what they say, that’s all you can really do! They might not always receive it the way that you hope, but what’s most important is that you are doing what’s right and listening to your heart.
Anonymous
April 30th, 2020 3:01am
if you are talking to an authority and you feel a little a anxious, just try to breathe a little and always remember that it is their job to protect you and to know what is going on if there is harm being done to you or someone else. its is always great to speak up if you see something bad happen because you could save many people from being harmed. when speaking to authority, try your best to stay calm, and be sure to make your words clear so they will not miss any detail you give them. it may be a little scary at first, but just know you are doing the right thing.
gentleSun78
May 19th, 2020 12:50pm
1) Prepare in advance what will you tell to authority, about what you will be talking, which words you will be using. 2) Train your speech before mirror for at least some days before you need to talk to authority. 3) Do relaxation exercises multiple times in days before you need to talk to authority, aim to good sleep (it is important that you are well rested), personal hygiene and good look (makeup, good posture). 4) Just before talking to authority do some relaxation exercises. 5) When you come in the office, have in mind that first impression is most important. Watch out on body language, your voice, etc. Tell what you have to tell, answer their questions trutfully and with confidence. If you will have confidence in yourself, they will confide you.
LEVListener93
July 10th, 2020 2:42am
Sometimes authority figures expect the people they have authority over to talk to them differently than the way other authority figures talk to them. This is something that I have struggled with also. I think the important thing to remember is that although it is important to show them respect, they also owe you respect even if they may have higher social status, and they should be mindful of your feelings too if you remind them of this in a polite way. A good way to avoid conflict with authority is to try to do what they want even if it doesn't always make sense - if you don't argue with them, their status as authority figures will come into play less to begin with and you can go about doing the things you need to do in your life. However, if their treatment or the rules they are implementing are truly unfair or discriminatory, it is important to speak up.
Anonymous
July 16th, 2020 5:59am
I understand how it feels to be nervous when speaking to authority, but it helps to remember they are a person just like us..! It seems like you might be feeling self-conscious as well, and as an extremely self-conscious person, I know the struggle! It's likely you don't sound as weird as you might think! And if you're feeling nervous, practicing alone and recording your own voice may help. But please take this advice with a grain of salt! It may be harmful, so it's best to realize that this is just my personal opinion. I hope things work out for you!
aquatea2016
July 24th, 2020 3:30am
For someone like me- a person who often overthinks what I say- the best way to talk to a figure of authority is to first, plan what you will discuss. I like to have a base plan on what to initially speak about, and usually, the conversation will run smoothly once it's off the ground. Additionally, include someone you know in the conversation if you have the ability. For example, when I often talk to people from my parent's work, having said parent there will always help if the conversation falters. Make sure to include proper titles such as Sir or Ma'am. Furthermore, if you are able, try to maintain a friendly, humorous, yet respectable manner of speaking. Speak slowly, yet surely, and be confident in your responses. Shake their hand if they're someone you'll be working with, or if they're a family friend. Hopefully, all of these tips can help you with creating a good, not-too-weird impression with authority.
Anonymous
July 29th, 2020 1:57am
I find that when talking to authority you should go into the conversation knowing exactly what you want to talk about. I think when you have an idea about what your end goal is it makes you feel more confident. It is also useful to come prepared with notes and to take deep breaths. There is no need to rush through the conversation. It is also useful to make it more of a discussion then a presentation, so try and ask questions to make that authority figure more engaged in the conversation. I think that will help a lot in not sounding so weird.
Anonymous
August 26th, 2020 2:20am
When talking to authority, always be honest in every conversation. It's okay to be afraid, that's normal, but answer every question with all honesty to the best of your ability. This assures you that by being honest, you are at peace. Respect the authority figure you are talking to. Be courteous and polite in answering questions and giving out information. The keys to not sounding weird when talking to authority is, honesty, politeness and respect. When you lack these keys you may sound defensive, as if you're hiding something. Or you may be put under suspicious circumstances. If you're not comfortable with the question or situation, say it.
Anonymous
September 5th, 2020 1:03am
Having been young in the workforce I often deal with a lot of older more authority figures. I have found that standing tall and acting with confidence and strength comes across well to other people. its Important to speak with full sentences and avoid slang. Keep the conversation straightforward, nodding and showing that you know just as much as they do works well. but also keeping the boundaries of the authority making sure to not disrespect the other person while making sure you also look well spoken. also weirdly enough I've noticed that smiling less works better to be seen as more serious.
Future737Pilot
November 25th, 2020 9:40am
Hello there. This is a topic that I have a lot of knowledge on because I have had a lot of experience talking to people in high positions not only at work and school, but in our government in my country. One tip I have is to always sound confident in your tone. If you sound assertive and don't have a lot of "uhms" and "uhhs" in your speech you will sound better when speaking to people in roles of authority. Another tip is to fully think about that you are going to say before saying it out-loud. Hope this helps!
Anonymous
December 30th, 2020 4:24pm
Try and create a talking bond between you and the authority member. Try and talk professional and kind, but also as a friend so that it is not weird and scary. This ensures that you are kind, respectful, but also seem mature and not timid when talking to authority figures. Try and identify pattern that you do when talking to authority such as stuttering and then make it a goal to work on that one specific thing that you are struggling with. Then notice how you talk to a friends, and try to incorporate that into how you talk to authority.
DarkPiT23
January 15th, 2021 6:24pm
You can sound less awkward and weird by just talking in a calm and collective voice, and addressing them by “sir” or “ma'am”. It could also help if you don't look like you've seen a ghost, and look at them with a calm look, not looking intimidated.
0tranquilForest0
February 3rd, 2021 10:03pm
It's important to remember that you are a person and deserve basic decency and respect. I find it hard to be confident especially in front of people who are respected or in positions of power, but it's important to remember that everyone starts somewhere. Even a country's leader was a child once. As long as you remember your worth, facing authority will be easier. You will make mistakes, so learning to forgive yourself will help you acknowledge them and brush them off, instead of internalizing them and growing more fearful or upset (which, in my experience, makes me cringe down and forget how to talk at all - not what we want!) Listen attentively and use respectful language. You don't have to thank them or apologize repeatedly, because that gets tiring and distracts you from the conversation. Most importantly, it takes practice. It's okay if you get it wrong the first couple of times.
royalRiver7128
February 28th, 2021 2:34am
Remember that everyone is human. Even authority figures were once children, teenagers, and might have gone through similar experiences as you! This simple reminder can help you not "sound weird". For example, if you are scared to ask your teacher for a better grade for fear of sounding too anxious or stressed, remind yourself that your teacher was once in your position. Your teacher once asked for help or for extra credit, too. Pretend you are asking an older friend, rather than someone who has authority over you. Also, make sure to take a deep breath and approach them with confidence.
Anonymous
March 17th, 2021 6:41pm
Some people have anxiety or concerns about speaking to authority or about how they sound when they speak to authority. This is a common, though thoroughly unpleasant experience. How you act in such a scenario certainly depends upon your goals and what you hope to come (or not come) of the interaction. One potential solution is to try to remain calm and respectful, like you might in any other conversation. Metaphorically, put your best foot forward, but also remember you are speaking to a person, and grant them the same dignity and respect you would grant any person. You're not required to treat them as anything more than a person simply because of whatever job they've taken, but you're not expected to treat them as anything less, either. At the end of the day, you are two people speaking to one another, and both sides of that equation should strive to recognize the humanity in the other. Granted, that may or may not happen, and sometimes we must hold ourselves to the higher standard so as not to stoop the low behavior of others.
aldeanyx
March 28th, 2021 1:37pm
Stay calm and collected, sometimes even a smile or a laugh can turn an awkward moment into a funny memory :) Try to talk to them as casual as possible without taking away from respect, so you don't feel so unnatural using words you normally wouldn't. Thinking of them as a friend that you look up to, especially if they are nice and treat you well, can help you get rid of the weirdness you feel around them. If you don't know them well, maybe talking to them a bit more can help you understand what they expect from you as an authority so you can act accordingly.
ReflectiveNature
May 30th, 2021 2:10am
Talk to them like they are just another person, just as you are. You’re talking to them for a good reason and probably need help. It’s their job to help. No one should ever make you feel bad or guilty for seeking an authority figure. Focus on what you need instead of how it may sound. Usually people are trained to help those in need, they understand that people are nervous when speaking to authority figures. They were once in the same position that you were in, so if they treat you badly it’s not your fault and they shouldn’t.
Anonymous
July 10th, 2021 1:27am
Firstly make eye contact. Automatically it gives you a sense of purpose and direction. It increases your authority too. You feel more confident and you can project that. You need to talk slow and enunciate every word clearly, dont rush. The moment you rush it is like you're trying to get all your words out and that you think you're not worthy of listening so you need to be slow. Being sure of what you are going to say and know what points you are going to bring up in front of authority is another sure shot way of establishing ground rules and respect.
Anonymous
July 29th, 2021 5:53am
First, you must try to figure out what might be the reason that you feel this way while talking to them? Do they make you feel inferior by their words or gestures? Do they make you uncomfortable in some way that you start feeling weird? Try to label this weird feeling that you get, that will be the first step to overcome this problem. You can also try some breathing exercises before going in for conversation. That tend to calm you down and your racing thoughts become slower. Also, you can practice the conversation before it actually happens. Planning gives you a sense of control over an unfamiliar situation. So that might help.
HealingGrace
October 27th, 2021 1:38am
Be authentic, professional, respectful, and courteous. If you put your best foot forward and perform your duties while keeping a good attitude, it's alright to be yourself. Just let your own unique self shine through! Not need to get overly focused on others' perceptions of you, though, because you cannot control how others will perceive you, and what they will deem to be weird or not. Just do your best, be open to constructive feedback so you can improve, but do to second-guess your personality and quirks, what makes you unique, the very core of you. That is precious, and can be a delight to others to watch you be you! :-)
supersensitiveStrength
November 26th, 2021 4:59pm
Without knowing what is meant by "weird," I'll respond by saying that weird is okay. So long as you communicate what you need to communicate, it's okay. You can be formal or informal, brief or a little bit more expounding. You can "be yourself," or act out a persona like how introverts do when making phone calls. Just remember this: getting the job done is more important than looking professional. Getting the job done is professional. Don't mind how weird it feels. It only seems weird because you know how you talk when you aren't around authority. But these authority figures, they don't know you. They don't know how you usually are. And if you feel self-conscious appearing not as who you are, well, these authorities don't know your coworkers, either. You blend right in.
Anonymous
February 17th, 2022 10:50pm
I'm not sure what constitutes sounding weird, but I think it is best when talking to authority if you present your opinions and situation/ overall topic in a polite and formal manner. Try to understand what the authority is looking and asking for to properly communicate, and this will help with the politeful aspect of conversing. I think it is also best to try and be friendly with authority, where you are happy to talk to them rather than seeming intimidated. After all, they are in positions of authority in order to help manage and help people such as you and I.
Anonymous
February 19th, 2022 10:06am
Think about your words/answer first and to have confidence in what you are saying. Assert yourself and others will feel your confidence shining through as well. Often we don't believe in ourselves or feel that we may say the wrong thing- especially when we're talking to authority figures. However, self confidence and being assured can help you to realise you can be empowered to say what you are thinking. Sounding "weird" in your view may be nervousness or fear of making a mistake. If you practice speaking clearly out loud, collect your thoughts, and have confidence, you will be great!
Doma481
March 6th, 2022 5:08pm
Show respect and be well spoken. Stand up for yourself and don't let your human rights be trumped over. Always try your best to be concise, coherent, and talk in a manner that shows literacy, knowledge and general familiarity with societal norms. Say things like "Thank you. No, thank you. Mr/Mrs/Prof/Dr" etc. Ask questions in a polite manner and take turns in speaking in an appropriate timing. Listen carefully and think before responding. Stand up straight, look polished and professional, try your best to speak in a non-agressive way if there's no need for it. Show respect to others and expect the same in return.
Anonymous
March 19th, 2022 7:42pm
This one's tough! I also struggle with talking to authority a lot. Whenever I try my best to be as casual and calm as possible, I sometimes feel like it makes me look more incriminating! What I try to do is view authority as someone like a cashier. I do my best to show them respect, out of both safety and admiration, but I try not to make a lot of small talk or unnecessary actions; they're quite busy! It's a hard line to tread between being open and kind while holding back enough without making it awkward, but I'm sure they'll appreciate the effort!