What to say instead of “I don't know” at work

Short answer: say “Good question. I'll find out and get back to you by 3.”

DON'T SAY
“I don't know.”
SAY THIS
“Good question. I'll find out and get back to you by 3.”
You turn a gap into a promise with a deadline, and that builds trust.

When to use it

Use it when you're asked something you can't answer on the spot, especially by a manager or client. Saying you'll find out, with a specific time, turns a gap into a commitment. Then follow up by that time, even if the answer is still partial.

Example

Client: “What's the turnaround on custom orders?”

You: “Good question. I'll find out and get back to you by 3.”

Client: “Perfect.”

In an email or Slack message

In Slack: “I don't have that number yet. I'll check with ops and reply here by 3.” Then reply in the same thread so the answer is easy to find.

Quick drill

When you're stuck on a technical or process problem.

Which sounds more confident?

Practice 10 more →

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25 phrases that make you sound confident at work

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