Myself
Admitting to not knowing something can actually build trust. When you say, "I don't know" pertaining to specific topics or acknowledging your knowledge gaps, it makes you more believable in everything you say. This is because it demonstrates honesty and humility, traits that are cherished and highly respected in effective communication and leadership.
Similarly, when giving advice, it's beneficial to hedge and say, "This is my opinion, and it could be incorrect." This shows that you acknowledge the possibility of being wrong, which is a sign of intellectual humility and openness to other perspectives.
In contrast, individuals who are pushy with their ideas and thoughts often come across as less believable. This is because their assertiveness can be interpreted as a lack of consideration for alternative viewpoints and a disregard for the complexity of the subject matter. Being receptive and open-minded, on the other hand, fosters an environment of trust and facilitates effective communication.