Five phrases intelligent people always use to get noticed and succeed at work

An expert on communications has revealed the five simple phrases that sophisticated people use to stand out and succeed. 

According to Jessica Chen, who coaches professionals on how to use language to get ahead, an employee doesn't need to be loud in order to get people's attention.

'It’s not about being assertive, dominant, or aggressive if that’s not your style,' Chen clarified.

'It’s about being intentional and smart so that when you do chime in, people listen,' she wrote in her essay for CNBC. 

The first simple phrase that someone can utter in order to come across as intelligent and thoughtful is 'I hear what you're saying.'

Chen explained that 'brilliant communicators know that in order for people to listen to them and their ideas, they have to make other people feel heard first.'

Instead of interrupting a co-worker in a meeting with something you want to say, the communications expert urges people to 'listen carefully and wait for them to finish speaking.'

By prefacing what you want to say with the phrase 'I hear what you're saying,' you are showing the other person that 'you're acknowledging them and their thoughts, even if you have an opposing point of view.'

The second valuable statement Chen admonished people to use is 'I'm excited about this.'

According to the communications whiz, it is vital to connect with people on an emotional level, rather than a purely rational one.

'To be a smart communicator, leverage emotion and incorporate stories in your speaking,' Chen exhorted.

In order to achieve this, people can use 'words like "excited" and "thrilled" to drum up support.'

For the phrase to have its full effect, Chen urged people to accompany it with raised eyebrows or a smile.

The third special phrase that the seasoned communicator said can lead to success is 'Here's what's new.'

Chen wrote: 'one of the most important things you can do at work is ask for what you want. Another is to nudge strategically to ensure you get a response.'

While most people preface their follow-ups with 'Hi, following up here,' successful people make sure to include fresh information when they bring something back up.

Chen offered an example: 'Since our last conversation where I pitched X project, I found some interesting data that supports my hypothesis about Y. Here's what's new.'

By slipping in this additional information, you are able to propel the conversation forward.

The fourth key phrase to getting ahead is 'Back then.'

According to the communications expert it's important to use phrases like 'back then' to talk about previous accomplishments.

As Chen pointed out, speaking about prior successes 'can unlock more opportunities.' 

In order not to come across like a braggart, the adept communicator recommended people employ contrasts that highlight 'the progress you've made and the impact you've had.'

The final fundamental phrase that smart and successful people use is 'Thank you for...'

Chen revealed that intelligent communicators understand that thanking people who help them is not enough. They are also specific about what they are thankful for.

'Being specific can magnify your appreciation, make our gratitude feel more authentic, and lift the other person.'

'It leaves a positive impression and can make them feel more inclined to repeat that helpful action.'