Avoiding coming off as pretentious is about being genuine, humble, and considerate in your interactions with others. Here are some tips to help you avoid giving off a pretentious vibe:
Listen actively: Pay attention to what others are saying and show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings. Avoid interrupting or dominating conversations.
Be humble: Avoid excessive bragging or name-dropping. Instead, focus on sharing your accomplishments in a modest and understated manner when relevant.
Avoid one-upping: When someone shares their experiences or achievements, resist the urge to immediately share a similar or more impressive story of your own. Acknowledge and appreciate their perspective.
Admit your limitations: Nobody knows everything, so don't be afraid to say "I don't know" when you encounter a topic beyond your expertise. Be open to learning from others.
Show empathy: Be sensitive to the feelings and experiences of others. Avoid belittling or dismissing their struggles or emotions.
Use inclusive language: Be mindful of using language that implies you are superior or separate from others. Instead, use inclusive language that fosters connection and understanding.
Be authentic: Be true to yourself and your values. Avoid pretending to be someone you're not or exaggerating your interests to impress others.
Avoid overusing jargon: While it's essential to express yourself clearly and confidently, using excessive jargon or complex language can come across as pretentious. Use language that is easily understandable to the people you're communicating with.
Give credit where it's due: If you're discussing a collaborative project or an idea that originated from someone else, acknowledge their contributions.
Be respectful of others' time: Avoid monopolizing conversations or making discussions solely about yourself. Give others a chance to speak and contribute.
Cultivate a sense of humor: Humor can be an effective way to connect with others and put them at ease. However, avoid using humor at the expense of others or to show off.
Be open to feedback: If someone points out behaviors that may come off as pretentious, take their feedback seriously and use it as an opportunity for self-improvement.
Remember that being confident and self-assured is not the same as being pretentious. Embrace your strengths and accomplishments while remaining approachable and down-to-earth. Building genuine connections with others is about being authentic and empathetic.