When It’s Okay to Say ‘I Don’t Know’
Posted December 24th, 2019
Many science professionals spend a significant amount of time dealing with unknowns. Many scientific roles focus on being on the cutting-edge, aiming to discover new facts, develop new solutions, and otherwise branch out into unexplored territory.
Since facing the unknown is at the core of scientific work, you won’t always have the answers as a scientific professional. However, the idea of saying, “I don’t know,” might be fairly intimidating. You may worry that, by responding in that manner, others will doubt your expertise or capabilities. You might fear that your manager will be disappointed or that they will assume you are dedicated and focused on your work.
While those feelings aren’t uncommon, that doesn’t mean you should never admit that you don’t have an answer. There are situations when saying, “I don’t know,” is acceptable, and even smart. However, you do need to approach the conversation in the proper way. Here’s a look at when it’s okay to say, “I don’t know,” and how to handle the discussion.
When You Are Facing Something Unexplored
At times, science professionals are asked about topics that have yet to be explored by essentially anyone. That’s what being at the forefront of science involves, so it can happen with surprising frequency.
When this happens, let the person know that what they are discussing is a new territory. The answers simply don’t exist yet. Then, go over what you know about the latest advancements in that area or any future projects that will focus on those answers. That way, you come off as informed and competent.
When You Are Working Toward an Answer, But Aren’t There Yet
If you are asked about a project before its completion and have yet to find an answer to a particular question, saying you don’t know is acceptable. However, you can adjust your response by stating, “I don’t know yet.” Then, you can tap on what you’ve learned so far through your work and when you anticipate an answer may be available.
This approach is ideal when an answer is a work in progress. You get to fill the person in on what your efforts have yielded, showing that you are striving to find an answer while admitting that the information isn’t currently available. Plus, by adding “yet” to your response, you are demonstrating your dedication to finding the truth.
When It’s Outside Your Area of Expertise
Sometimes, people assume that all science professionals know everything about every science in existence. They simply don’t understand how vast the scientific world is, and that scientists generally specialize in a particular niche.
If you don’t know an answer because its outside of your area of expertise, it’s okay to say so. For example, if you are asked a microbiology question, but you’re a chemical engineer, you can tell the person that you don’t know the answer because it doesn’t relate to your field. Ideally, you’ll want to follow that up with something that can help the person find their answer, such as by pointing them to a reputable resource or professional that does focus in that area.
Ultimately, saying that you don’t know is okay in all of the situations above. Just make sure to handle your response using the tips provided, and you can navigate the discussion professionally. If you’d like to find out more about handling challenging conversations, the team at Bayside Solutions can give you helpful guidance. Contact us to speak with one of our staff members today.
