Arrogance is not an attractive trait in anyone.

Most people don’t go out of their way to be arrogant of course but sending out the wrong signals can lead to mistaken judgments.

Your personal and professional brand could take a big hit if others feel you are veering into arrogant territory.

If you are at all worried that you might be being perceived as too arrogant, then here are five quick tip which you can start to think about right now.

Tip 1 – Listen to understand

Listening is one of the most underrated and underused communication skills. Too many people focus on what they are saying and ignore what others are trying to say.

Arrogant people are often very poor listeners. They will look for opportunities to get their vocal foot in the door and promote their agenda and they will often interrupt to do so.

Talk less and listen more. Listen to try and understand the other rather than trying to make yourself understood. This is a humble yet powerful and effective approach to communication.

The stoic Epictetus pointed out that we have two ears and one mouth, and we should use them in that ratio. A wise man indeed.

Tip 2 – Keep an open mind

Minds are like parachutes, umbrellas, and books – they work best when they’re open.

This tip is closely linked to the first tip on listening effectively.

Keeping an open mind means looking to learn something you didn’t know before the conversation started.

You should not simply look for validation of your own ideas. Seek to increase everyone’s knowledge by first increasing your and enriching your own.

Tip 3 – Embrace differences

There’s an oft-repeated quote (some say from Henry Ford, but I can’t definitively confirm that) which says, “If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always got.”

Difference is what can make the difference for you.

Pay more attention to difference when you communicate with others. Keep that open mind we talked about, and you just may find yourself becoming different.

Tip 4 – Take full ownership

Don’t expect or wait for others to step up and take ownership of situations. If it is down to you then do it.

People are not there simply to serve you. Be humble and do your fair share.

Sometimes, even if something isn’t strictly within your remit, take ownership of it anyway. Lead by example and show others that you are not afraid to get your hands dirty, metaphorically, or otherwise.

Tip 5 – Admit your mistakes

If you make a mistake, own it. Fess up. Say “I did that. I’m sorry. How can I make it right?” Never place the blame on a party you know to be innocent to save your own hide.

It’s a lot easier than lying and you will be seen has trustworthy and someone with high integrity. Say what you will do and do what you say you will do.

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Look around, listen to, and watch others. Who is arrogant and who is humble. Which type do you like, respect, and trust the most?

Focus on these five and see how you get on.

All the best to you and yours

Andrew D Pope