I explore the idea of “magic words” — phrases we treat as if they instantly change a situation — and why leaders shouldn’t fall for them. Drawing on fantasy stories where magic requires rules, triggers, and consequences, I explain how certain workplace words like please, sorry, and work-life balance are often used as conversation-enders rather than starting points.

While words matter and give us insight into intent and understanding, they are not spells that automatically fix problems or resolve expectations. The real work is to keep listening, keep asking questions, and understand what sits behind the words, rather than assuming that saying the right phrase moves us from problem to solution.