Use This Simple Trick to Get People’s Attention at Work
- Erin Hatzikostas
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
I want to share one of my favorite authenticity hacks.
And honestly?
I don’t talk about it that much because it feels almost too simple.
But it works like magic.
It’s called pattern interruption.
Why Pattern Interrupts Matter More Than Ever
Think about how people consume information today.
The same people you’re emailing…
The same people you’re pitching…
The same people you’re presenting to…
Are the exact same humans who:
scroll past content in seconds
ignore most emails
tune out in meetings
If something doesn’t grab them quickly, they’re gone.
And now? It’s even worse.
Because we’re drowning in:
AI-generated emails
polished, buttoned-up communication
corporate-sounding everything
Which means the bar to stand out is actually… pretty low.
The Easiest Way to Pattern Interrupt
Here’s the good news.
You don’t need to overhaul your message.
You don’t need to be a creative genius.
You just need to change one thing.
Replace one word.
That’s it.
Instead of saying something is “a lot,” say: a bazillion
Instead of saying “competitors,” say: the other schmucks
Instead of saying things went badly? Try: that went poopy
Yes. Poopy.
And yes—it works.
Because it’s unexpected.
And unexpected = attention.
Take It One Step Further: Add a Human Phrase
If you want to level this up, add a short, human phrase into your communication.
Especially in moments where people expect the same old boring script.
For example, when asking for a meeting:
“I know you need another meeting like you need a hole in the head…”
“This might be the most annoying email you get all day, but…”
Or when you mess something up (prime opportunity, by the way):
“I’m such a moron…”
“Total rookie mistake on my part…”
These are the kinds of things you’d say to a friend.
And that’s exactly the point.
Why This Works So Well
Pattern interrupts do three powerful things:
1. They Stop the Scroll
People pause because something feels different.
2. They Create Connection
You sound human—not like a corporate robot.
3. They Build Curiosity
People think, “Wait… what did they just say?”
And now they’re paying attention.
Authenticity Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
When people think about authenticity in the workplace, they assume it requires some big, bold move.
It doesn’t.
Sometimes it’s just:
one unexpected word
one slightly offbeat phrase
one moment of realness
That’s enough to break the pattern.
And when you break the pattern…
You get attention.
Your Challenge
The next time you:
send an email
hop into a meeting
make a pitch
Try this:
Change one word.
That’s it.
Because sometimes the smallest shift…
Creates the biggest impact.
Erin Hatzikostas is an internationally recognized leader on the impact of authenticity in the workplace. Learn more about her keynote speaking, workshops, and other authentic programs here.
