5 Master Effective Communication Phrases for Workplace Success and Stand Out

Phrase 4: “At That Time”

The Power of Reflecting on Past Successes

The fourth key phrase, “At that time,” emphasizes the importance of reflecting on and highlighting past successes in the workplace. In a professional setting, your track record of achievements can be a powerful tool in building credibility and influencing others. By referencing past successes, you not only remind others of your expertise but also reinforce your ability to deliver results.

Reflecting on past successes is particularly useful when you’re advocating for a particular course of action or trying to persuade others to support your ideas. When you say, “At that time,” you’re drawing a connection between your previous accomplishments and the current situation, suggesting that your past experience can inform your approach to the present challenge.

Why Highlighting Past Successes Matters

In the workplace, your reputation is often built on your ability to deliver results. By highlighting your past successes, you reinforce your credibility and demonstrate your expertise. This can be particularly important when you’re seeking to influence others, whether it’s convincing your team to adopt a new strategy or persuading your boss to support a project.

Moreover, reflecting on past successes can help to build confidence, both in yourself and in those around you. When you remind others of what you’ve accomplished in the past, you reinforce the idea that you are capable of achieving similar results in the future. This can be particularly motivating in challenging situations, where past successes can serve as a reminder of your ability to overcome obstacles and deliver results.

How to Use “At That Time” Effectively

To use this phrase effectively, it’s important to be specific about the past successes you’re referencing. Instead of making vague statements, provide concrete examples of what you achieved and how it relates to the current situation. For example, you might say, “At that time, when we faced a similar challenge, we were able to increase our market share by 15% by implementing a targeted marketing campaign. I believe we can apply a similar approach to this project.”

By providing specific examples, you not only demonstrate your expertise but also offer a blueprint for how past successes can be replicated in the current situation. This can be particularly persuasive when you’re trying to gain support for a new initiative or convince others to follow your lead.

Additionally, be mindful of how you present your past successes. While it’s important to highlight your achievements, you should also acknowledge the contributions of others who were involved. This shows that you are a team player and that you value collaboration, which can enhance your credibility and make others more likely to support your ideas.

The Role of Reflection in Continuous Improvement

Reflecting on past successes is not just about showcasing your achievements; it’s also an opportunity for continuous improvement. By looking back at what worked well in the past, you can identify the strategies and approaches that were most effective and apply them to new challenges. This reflective practice can lead to ongoing success and help you to continuously improve your performance.

Moreover, by regularly reflecting on your past successes, you can build a portfolio of achievements that can be used in performance reviews, job applications, and other situations where you need to demonstrate your value. This can be a powerful tool in advancing your career and achieving long-term success.

Real-Life Example

Suppose you’re leading a project and facing resistance from your team. You might say, “At that time, when we implemented a similar project, we were able to meet all our deadlines and exceed our targets by using a phased approach. I think we can achieve the same success with this project if we apply the same strategy.” By referencing a past success, you reassure your team that the proposed approach is proven and likely to lead to positive outcomes.