You won’t believe the answer. You will think, “That’s too easy.”

Here’s your hint: What’s the least powerful word to get your message across? Answer: “I”.

What’s the most powerful word to get your message across? Answer: “YOU”.

United States Congressman, Pete Sessions, knows how to get his message heard. No matter what your political stance is, Congressman Sessions communicates with savvy. Last Thursday Sessions gave a short speech at the annual Dallas County Dental Society’s installation. Every sentence he uttered began with “you” and NOT “I”.

Pete’s prose examples: “You are a great profession.” “You give back to our society.” “You were there for my family when our fifth child with Downs Syndrome really needed your care”… He nailed it.

You will be surprised to know how hard it is to use this word. That’s because you begin your sentences with “I” on emails, in meetings, and at presentations.

Your examples: “I look forward to working with you.” “I really am pleased to present this information to you.” “I have three examples to show how we will solve this architectural challenge”…

Your Speak For Yourself® challenge: Start emails with “you”. Begin a speech with “you”. Use “you” a whole lot more than you use “I” at the beginning, middle and end of your spoken and written words. You will be inclusive, empowering and persuasive.

Karen Cortell Reisman, M.S., author of 3 books and President of Speak For Yourself®, works with organizations on how to communicate to make more money. It’s all in how you speak for yourself. Read more at www.SpeakForYourself.com/blog/