If you are not careful, you could be missing out on sales solely based on the words you use. The words and phrases you use to communicate with your customers can have a significant impact on your sales success. Blurting out the wrong thing could bring all your progress to a screeching halt.

Here is a list of sales phrases to cut out of your vocabulary:

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1. “Honestly”

By using this word, you are implying that other things you have spoken to the client about may not be true. It could cause a customer to second guess what you are telling them and call into question your legitimacy. People are already suspicious of salespeople and questionable tactics. Don’t give them another reason not to trust you or your motives.

2. “Does that make sense?”

While your intent is to ensure you and your customer are on the same page, it can put your customer in an awkward situation. If they say they don’t understand, they may feel embarrassed.

How you say this phrase is also important. If it is not your intention, it could be interpreted as talking down to a person. This could offend them and cause them to disengage with you.

3. “Are you the right person to speak with?”

If you are making a sales call, you should know this information before you establish contact. Calling someone and asking this question could make you look ill-prepared and things could get off to a rocky start. Today there are rare instances where one person makes a decision. Companies make collaborative decisions, which renders this question somewhat dated.

4. “Just checking in”

This is one of the most commonly used sales phrases. It is as salesy as it gets. People will automatically be on guard when you say these words. First of all, “just checking in” connotes that you don’t have anything of value to communicate. If you have nothing new, then is there really a reason for you to be contacting your customers/prospects? Always have a reason to speak with your customers.

5. “Can I have a couple of minutes of your time?”

Asking a closed question gives your customers an immediate out. This is a big “no-no” in sales. If the customer says no, then the conversation is over before it started. Stick to open-ended questions so your customer will provide you with a response you can work with.

Being too lax with your sales phrases and terminology could negatively impact your performance. Think about the things you say to customers during the sales process. Using a more succinct approach with the right words and phrases can help you be a more effective sales professional.

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