What to say when someone takes credit for your idea

Short answer: say “Glad that idea is landing. Since I drafted it, I'm happy to walk through the details.”

DON'T SAY
“Um, actually, that was kind of my idea…”
SAY THIS
“Glad that idea is landing. Since I drafted it, I'm happy to walk through the details.”
It reclaims the credit calmly, without making it a fight.

When to use it

Use it when someone presents your idea as their own, or when it gets credited to the wrong person. Mention that you drafted it and offer to walk through the details. You reclaim ownership by showing you know it best, without accusing anyone.

Example

Colleague: “So my thought is we bundle the add-ons.”

You: “Glad that idea is landing. Since I drafted it, I'm happy to walk through the details.”

Director: “Please do.”

In an email or Slack message

After the meeting, send a recap that documents it: “Following up on the bundling idea from my proposal last week: here are the details and next steps.” A paper trail helps going forward.

Quick drill

When you have a different view and the decision isn't final.

Which sounds more confident?

Practice 10 more →

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25 phrases that make you sound confident at work

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