Are you lacking the vocabulary to give credit to a colleague at work?
You may need to congratulate them on a presentation or a job well done.
Listen in to learn how you can commend your co-worker on a good contribution to a project.
Good ideas
Lindsay asks Michelle if someone has ever taken an idea from her and presented it as their own.
Michelle responds that this happens more when someone doesn’t know it was her idea.
Though this can be intentional, it often is not.
It’s important not to overlook colleagues when they’ve contributed an idea that was helpful.
We also don’t want to make it seem like we’re taking credit for their idea.
This may upset your co-worker if you don’t commend others for their own contribution.
It can also make them feel that you don’t value their hard work.
Giving credit where credit is due
In the workplace, there are many instances where you can give credit to co-workers.
You may be in a brainstorming session and want to bring up an idea mentioned previously by your workmate.
You can share it and then mention your colleague so it doesn’t sound like you are trying to take credit.
By naming them, you are helping others be aware of their contribution.
This can improve your relationships at work.
Today Lindsay and Michelle share different phrases to introduce someone else’s idea while still giving them credit.
#1: I have to give X credit for this
This is very direct.
You can get straight to the point and give credit to your colleague.
Example:
“I have to give Lindsay credit for this. I do think we should look into our spending because we could save in so many ways.”
#2: This goes back to X’s idea
This is similar to the previous phrase but less direct.
When you are discussing something, a good segue is to mention the person who gave the idea on what you’re presenting.
Example:
“This goes back to Michelle’s idea of attending some community festivals to spread the word about our company.”
#3: I have to give credit where credit is due
This is a well-known phrase to admit you’re not the person who came up with the idea.
It’s a preface to you mentioning who really gave the idea.
Example:
“I have to give credit where credit is due- Jasmine came up with that incredible marketing idea.”
#4: This was actually X’s idea
This phrase shares who really came up with the idea.
This can also be used as a response to someone who is assuming what you’re presenting is your idea.
Example:
“This was actually Paul’s idea, but I think we should consider what will happen five years down the line, not just one.”
#5: I don’t know if you heard/knew, but X was saying that …
This is a more subtle way of mentioning your colleague.
It’s a good way to show how an idea contributed to the project.
Example:
“I don’t know if you heard but Chelsea actually suggested having a whole task force on this plan.”
Roleplay
Today’s roleplay will show you how to use the phrases from this episode in an English conversation.
In this scenario, Lindsay and Michelle work together and are in a meeting.
Michelle: So, how should we run this event?
Lindsay: Well… this was actually Anastasia’s idea, but I think it has to be earlier than usual and we need a larger team.
Michelle: True. It is a good idea.
Lindsay: I have to give credit where credit is due. She comes up with great ideas.
Michelle: She definitely does!
Lindsay: And also, this goes back to Patrick’s idea. Getting new swag to pass out will be key.
Michelle: Oh! I definitely agree! I have to give Samantha credit for this. We should look into those new T-shirts that are so popular.
Lindsay: Yes!
Takeaway
You must always give credit where credit is due.
Recognizing your colleagues for their ideas and contributions not only shows respect but also fosters a positive, collaborative work environment.
Not giving credit where it’s deserved can lead to frustration and resentment, potentially harming relationships and team morale.
It’s good to make the conscious effort to acknowledge others and show appreciation by using the phrases shared in today’s episode.
Taking a moment to highlight someone else’s contribution builds stronger relationships and fosters a positive team culture.
You can check out similar podcast episodes that help you talk well with your colleagues at work.
Listen to episode BE 337: 4 Phrases You Should Be Saying to Coworkers.
What are other ways you can show appreciation to your coworkers?
We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
