We have been trained since we were little to say, “you’re welcome” whenever we hear the words “thank you.” However, these two words may not be the best response.

Because the words “you’re welcome” have been so engraved in our minds, it becomes emotionless and almost robotic. It’s as if we say it only to acknowledge that person or just say it because it’s just what we’re used to saying when we hear someone thank us.

I end up saying “you’re welcome” the majority of the times I’m thanked. I do it only because that’s what I’ve gotten used to saying. I rarely ever say it anymore with the intentions of actually meaning what I’m saying, or having any sort of emotion behind the words. I only say it because I feel the obligation to say it, not because I genuinely mean it.

I’m not going to deny that there are those who do put forward meaning and emotion when they tell a person “you’re welcome” and that they genuinely mean it. But for those who want to be more genuine in their response, there are other ways to go about saying “you’re welcome”. The alternatives may have a bit more meaning and emotion behind the words that are spoken.

Robert Cialdini, author of the book “Influence,” studied the idea of persuasion. He came to the conclusion that the words “you’re welcome” are a missed opportunity. He recommends using the more unconventional reply “I know you’d do the same for me” or “I was happy to do it.”

These kinds of phrases allow us to maintain relationships where we help one another out without having the stress of keeping score, according to a Huffington Post article. It also shows people that we are the kinds of people who want to help others. Lastly, it kind of gives a sense of obligation to the other person, where he or she will have to reciprocate the action in the future.

“Cialdini’s phrase tells the person who received your favor that someday you may need help, too, and it also signals to the person that you believe she is honorable and someone who will reciprocate. If this is the spirit in which you’re saying it, your response is far more enchanting than the perfunctory ‘You’re welcome,’” Guy Kawasaki wrote in his book “Enchantment.”

Saying the phrase “you’re welcome” has become second nature to all of us, but maybe it’s time to start changing it up a bit. So be daring, try some new phrase, and become more genuine in the response that is given to someone when someone says “thank you.”

Tara Miller can be reached at [email protected] or @chicojournalist on Twitter.