When a manager or colleague poses a direct question during a meeting and your mind goes blank, the pressure to have an immediate and correct answer can be intense. This moment is a frequent test of professional poise. How you handle this situation says a lot about your confidence and competence. It’s a scenario every professional faces, but one that can be navigated with grace.
Why Admitting You Don’t Know Is a Strength
Acknowledging the limits of your knowledge is often perceived as a weakness, but in a professional context, it can be a significant strength. When you honestly admit you don’t have the information, you build a foundation of trust with your colleagues. Your willingness to be transparent demonstrates integrity and shows that you value accuracy over the appearance of knowing everything. This honesty prevents the spread of misinformation.
This act of intellectual honesty is also a sign of high self-awareness. Confident individuals understand that it’s impossible to have every answer. Pretending to know something you don’t can erode your credibility if the information you provide is inaccurate. By admitting a knowledge gap, you preserve your professional standing and create an opportunity to learn.
Professional Phrases to Use
I will find out for you
Stating, “I will find out for you,” or a similar variation like, “I’m not sure, but I’ll find out and let you know,” immediately shifts the focus to proactive problem-solving. This phrase communicates commitment and responsibility. It assures the person asking that their question is important and that you are taking ownership of finding a resolution. It is best used when the question falls within your general area of responsibility.
This response transforms a potentially awkward moment into a demonstration of diligence. It conveys that you are resourceful and dedicated to providing an accurate response. It is a simple yet powerful way to maintain momentum in a conversation while building your reputation as a reliable colleague.
I am not the best person to answer that
Knowing when to defer to an expert is a valuable professional skill. Using a phrase like, “I am not the best person to answer that, but I can connect you with someone who is,” shows respect for the questioner’s time and the complexity of their query. It demonstrates that you understand the organizational structure and recognize the specialized knowledge of your colleagues. This approach is ideal when a question is outside your defined role.
By directing the query to the appropriate person, you are not simply deflecting responsibility; you are acting as a helpful facilitator. This shows you are focused on getting the most accurate and efficient answer for the person asking. It is a strategic response that highlights your understanding of teamwork and your commitment to company effectiveness.
That is a great question
Responding with, “That is a great question,” is a technique to validate the person asking while giving yourself a moment to think. It acknowledges the importance of the query and shows you are engaged and listening actively. This phrase can be a preface to another, such as, “That’s a great question. I need to look into a few things to get you the right information.” It is particularly useful in situations where the question is complex.
This phrase can help de-escalate any perceived pressure in the conversation. It creates a collaborative tone, suggesting that the question has sparked a new line of thinking. This approach shows you are thoughtful and appreciate insightful inquiries, turning a Q&A into a respectful dialogue.
My understanding is
When you have some knowledge on a topic but are not entirely certain, using “My understanding is…” can be an effective way to share what you know while signaling a degree of uncertainty. This phrase allows you to contribute to the conversation without presenting incomplete information as fact. It is best used when you can provide a partial answer but want to make it clear that the information should be verified.
This response frames your answer as a contribution to a larger discussion rather than a definitive statement. It invites others to add their own knowledge or correct any inaccuracies, fostering a more collaborative environment. It shows that you are willing to be helpful even when you don’t have the complete picture.
I will look into that and get back to you
Similar to “I will find out,” the phrase “I will look into that and get back to you” is a clear and professional commitment. It signals that you are taking the question seriously and will dedicate time to researching a thorough answer. This phrase is especially useful when a question requires more than a simple fact-check and may involve some investigation or data analysis.
By using this phrase, you manage expectations and establish a clear path forward. It indicates a methodical approach and reinforces your image as a conscientious professional who prioritizes accuracy. This response reassures the questioner that their inquiry will be addressed thoughtfully.
The Follow-Up Step
Stating that you will find an answer is not enough; the follow-through is what solidifies your credibility. The first step is to take clear ownership of the task. This means you are responsible for either finding the information directly or ensuring the person who asked is successfully connected with the correct expert. This proactive step shows accountability.
The second part of the follow-up is to provide a specific and realistic timeline. Instead of a vague promise to “get back to them soon,” offer a concrete timeframe, such as “by the end of the day” or “by tomorrow afternoon.” This manages expectations and gives the other person a clear idea of when they can anticipate a response. Meeting this self-imposed deadline is important for demonstrating reliability.
What to Avoid When You Don’t Know
When faced with a question you cannot answer, there are several reactions to avoid. The most significant is guessing or fabricating an answer. Spreading false information can damage your credibility and lead to poor decisions. It is always better to admit you don’t know than to be caught in a lie.
Another common pitfall is becoming defensive or dismissive of the question. This can make you appear uncooperative and insecure. Similarly, shifting blame or saying “that’s not my job” can damage your professional relationships and reputation. The goal is to be helpful, even when you don’t have the immediate answer.