How to Avoid Saying “I Don’t Know” Directly
If you don't know the answer to a question, how do you respond? In professional settings, it's often better to say you don't know in a less direct way. This is especially true when you are asked about something that perhaps you should know.
Luckily, there are phrases you can use that sound more positive and productive than simply saying “I don’t know.” Each of the following expressions will be useful in your office or in any other formal situation.
I’ll look into it.
“Look into” is one of the many phrasal verbs you can make with “look.” It means to research or investigate something, and it’s a great alternative to “I don’t know.”
- I’ll look into it and let you know as soon as I find out.
- Let me look into that and contact you when I know more.
Let me get back to you.
“Getting back” to someone is contacting them again at a later time. With this response, you are giving yourself time to get the answer.
- I'm not sure. Let me get back to you on that.
- I don't know, but let me get back to you later today.
I’ll find out.
This phrase is quite simple, and it shows that you are taking positive steps to get the information you need.
- That's a good question. I’ll find out and report back by the end of the day.
- I'll find out for you and call you back shortly.
Please give me (time) to ~
Another alternative to “I don’t know” is to simply ask the other person to wait while you find the answer.
- I’m not sure, but please give me a moment to find out.
- Give me an hour and I'll follow up with the answer.
I’m (probably) not the best person to ask.
If a question isn’t related to what you do at work, you can suggest that it would be better to ask someone else.
- I wish I could help, but I'm not the best person to ask.
Even if you don't have a full answer, you can share the information you do have.
- I’m probably not the best person to ask, but I think that department is on the fourth floor.
That’s not my area of expertise.
Another choice is to directly say that something is not your speciality. Again, this is best when you can add some information, even if it is incomplete.
- I'm sorry, but that's not my area of expertise and I don't want to give you bad information.
- That's not my area of expertise, but I think this solution should work.
I don’t know, but I know who might/does.
A great way to avoid a simple “I don’t know” is to mention who you think does have the answer. This way, you are still being helpful to the other person.
- I don’t know, but I think Louis might. His office is down the hall.
Alternatively, you can simply mention the other person first.
- Actually, I think Petra would be a better person to ask. I want to make sure you get accurate information.
Adding the follow-up phrase lets the other person know that their question is important and deserves a quality answer.
Wrap-up
Saying that you don't know something doesn't have to be a short and negative end to a conversation. With these phrases, you can professionally ask for time to find the answers, or you can guide the other person to a better source of information. As long as you speak with a smile and a friendly tone of voice, you are communicating effectively and professionally.
