According to the Yale University English Department, there are words in the English language that are more persuasive than any others. In no particular order the list includes money, save, health, discovery, results, guarantee, proven, easy, love, new and free. The most powerful word in the English language was determined to be YOU, as in your interviewers, your clients, and your audience. Not you, personally.
During the Yale study it was learned that approximately 50% of all business communications begin with “I” whether in formal letters or emails. Think of the number of times a verbal exchange has begun with “I,” especially as a response to an open-ended interview question. During times of desperation, “I” unconsciously becomes part of communications. In a different context, the repeated use of “I” can also reflect narcissistic tendencies.
A good rule of thumb is to use the words YOU and YOUR eight times (8x) for every time you use I, ME, MY, MINE, OUR, US or WE. Since an email or letter should never be long enough to incorporate this rule, and since most people do not have the counting prowess of a poker player, do not use “I” in your communications, spoken or written, unless it is to say, “It is my fault,” or “I am sorry.”
Below is a quick example of two separate responses to the same question, “Why are you the best candidate for this position?”
Bad response: “Because I have experience in…”
Better response: “Because [NAME OF COMPANY] needs someone that can …”
Do not take it personally. The truth is that nobody, except possibly for your spouse or your parents, cares about you or your needs. Remember the Platinum Rule, and sincerely and enthusiastically care about your audience, their concerns and their needs.
Remove "I" from your vernacular and you are better than 50% of the population.
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