What Not to Say at Work

By the time we reach adulthood most of us have figured out what not to say in our personal lives. Unless you are truly insensitive (or a glutton for punishment) you know that “yes that skirt does make you look fat” and “actually I think you are losing your hair” are just not wise words to speak aloud if you want to maintain peace and harmony.

People tend to be less careful about what they say in the workplace and fail to understand how much of an impact saying the wrong thing might have on their relationships with their bosses and coworkers and even their career in general. Here a few of the worst conversational faux pas that you can make at work

“It’s not my job” – If someone is approaching you with an issue they obviously have a reason. Sure it may not be your job to cover reception while the regular girl goes to the dentist but will it really kill you to do so? Using this phrase indicates to those who hear it that you are not a team player and this is a bad rep to get in any job.

“It’s been three years and I still didn’t get a raise” - Most hiring managers agree – these days it is productivity rather than longevity that wins an employee a pay raise. Asking for a raise just because it has been a while since you got one gives your boss the impression that you think you are entitled to one, and in most cases that will only lessen your chances of actually adding a dollar or two to your paycheck. Focus instead on all the good you have done for your company and if you can prove it you are far more likely to be successful.

“Don’t tell anybody I told you this but..” – Nobody really likes an office gossip, even if they listen to them once in a while. Whatever your juicy secret is keep it to yourself. If you don’t, you can be sure that someone will be quite happy to finger you as the culprit if your tidbit causes trouble (which they invariably do.)

“I got so wasted last night” – You were probably not the only person who had a drink (or ten) last night but you are the only one bragging about it in the boss’s earshot. Sure your personal life is your own business so keep it that way. Getting yourself a reputation as an irresponsible party animal will do little for your promotion chances.