5 Phrases That Build Trust (and 3 That Break It)

nicole7810
Sep 1, 2025
2 min read

Elementary students practicing social skills in a bright, cheerful classroom — shaking hands, listening, and learning under teacher guidance

Words Create Connection—Or Distance

Whether you're leading a team, managing a classroom, talking to your teen, or ordering lunch with style (we see you, polite queens 👑), the words you use can either build bridges—or break them.

In our etiquette and social-emotional learning curriculum, we teach that trust isn’t built through grand gestures—it’s built one phrase at a time. Here's a roundup of simple but powerful language swaps that create connection, not confusion.

✅ 5 Phrases That Build Trust

1. “Thank you for telling me.”

This phrase works like a charm in both classrooms and boardrooms. It validates vulnerability and opens the door for ongoing honesty.

2. “You’re right—I didn’t think of it that way.”

Boom. Instant credibility. You’ve shown humility, curiosity, and a willingness to grow—all signs of someone others can trust.

3. “Here’s what I can do.”

This reframe is perfect when setting boundaries or navigating disappointment. It shows you’re engaged and reliable—even if the answer isn’t a full yes.

4. “Is there anything else you want me to know?”

One of the most underrated trust-builders out there. It invites openness and says, “I’m still listening.”

5. “I’ll follow up by [specific time].”

Trust lives in the follow-through. Be specific. Be timely. Be the person whose word means something.

🚫 3 Phrases That Quietly Break Trust

1. “Calm down.”

This instantly dismisses someone’s emotions. Replace it with: “Let’s take a breath together” or “Want to talk this through?”

2. “That’s just how I am.”

Yikes. Nothing says “I’m not open to growth” quite like this one. Instead, try: “I’m working on that” or “Thanks for pointing it out.”

3. “Sorry you feel that way.”

This classic fauxpology puts the blame on the other person. If you need to apologize, make it count: “I’m sorry for what I did. I understand it hurt you.”

💡 Quick Tip for Teachers & Parents

Want your students or kids to mirror respectful, trust-building language?

Model it.

Every time you say “Thank you for telling me,” you teach them how to listen and lead. Every time you apologize sincerely, you teach them it’s not weakness—it’s integrity.