How to share an idea at work without undermining it

Short answer: say “Here's an idea worth testing.”

DON'T SAY
“This is probably a bad idea, but…”
SAY THIS
“Here's an idea worth testing.”
Criticizing your own idea first invites everyone else to dismiss it.

When to use it

Use it when you have an idea that's unusual or not fully worked out. “Worth testing” is honest about the uncertainty without putting the idea down. It frames the next step as an experiment, which is easier for people to say yes to than a big commitment.

Example

You: “Here's an idea worth testing: we send the renewal reminder a month earlier for one region.”

Manager: “Low risk. Let's try it.”

In an email or Slack message

In a brainstorm doc or Slack channel, label it clearly: “Idea worth testing: earlier renewal reminders. Small pilot, one region, four weeks.” A scoped test reads as thought through.

Quick drill

When you have something relevant and there's a natural pause, or when the topic is about to move on without your input.

Which sounds more confident?

Practice 10 more →

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