Never say this to your boss: 32 phrases

Honesty is the best policy in the workplace, but, like any rule, it has a few exceptions.

It is very important to be careful with what you say to your boss, since seemingly familiar remarks can ruin your career or worsen your position in the company. There are obvious things that one should not express to his boss, but there are also those that you can use without even guessing about their negative influence. We have compiled a list of phrases that you should not repeat in the presence of the boss or express them directly, if you do not want him to begin to doubt your professionalism.

You are not right

Frank criticism or pointing out mistakes of your boss is the right way to be excluded from future meetings or ignored when you want to say something next time. If you think your boss made a mistake, there are more effective ways to solve this issue.

I can not

Employers always appreciate the willingness of an employee to perform work. The phrase "I can not" speaks about the lack of self-confidence or unwillingness to take risks.

This is not my responsibility

Even if your duties are defined in the contract, this does not mean that you must give up another job. You need to remain flexible in order to be able to prove yourself well. If you are not ready to go beyond your role, then you are not interested in the success of the company.

I dont know

You do not have to have answers to all the questions, but it's better to make an assumption or promise to find out what to shrug your shoulders and talk about your ignorance.

No

It is expected that at work you will use a polite tone. Saying "no" to your boss is sometimes necessary, but in most cases this is inappropriate, especially if you do not complete this phrase with an explanation.

I'll try

Some people think that this is an acceptable answer, since we all "try" to achieve their goals. But this leaves your boss feeling insecure about you, because doing work requires, as a rule, specific deadlines.

This is not what I heard

You should avoid gossip and guesswork, since this can have unpleasant consequences. If you are not sure of something, it is better to wait, or you risk appearing unprofessional.

How to benefit from this?

Sometimes your work will include helping other colleagues or departments. Do not expect tolerance for yourself if you are not a team player.

I'm sorry, but...

The word "but", in fact, cancels the effect of regrets you expressed. If you are confused, it's better to say: "I'm sorry. I will be more aware of this issue next time. "

I can not collect because of a divorce from my husband. Today is clearly not my day

Every employee in your office has personal problems, but this does not mean that you have to show your own unprofessionalism.

I did my best

This is an excuse. If you make a mistake, it's better not to give up responsibility. The better your reaction now, the more rights you will get next time.

I already tried to do this before

Chiefs have little tolerance for laziness. Did you really understand what is required of you? Perhaps your boss meant something different.

I'm quitting

Do not threaten your own dismissal. It's unprofessional, and besides your boss will consider you an unreliable person.

On the last job we all did differently

No manager will like this comparison, so you have to act cautiously if you think you know the best way to do this job.

I'm really not to blame, it's the fault of someone else

If you are really innocent, then explain why. But do not involve others if you are primarily responsible.

If you do not give instructions, I will do as I see fit

It's like a threat. It's better to wait than get a reprimand.

Your predecessor did better

Bosses usually believe that their methods are preferable to the work of their predecessors, because they are now occupying this position. If his method of work is not an obvious mistake, do not challenge your boss simply because the old methods of work were easier for you.

I can not work with him / her

This can work in an elementary school, but not in the workplace. It is assumed that you are able to ignore personal conflicts in the interests of work.

He's crazy

If you are trying to cast a shadow on your colleague, in the first place it will affect you.

Why is he always ...?

The whining is annoying. If you have any complaints, it is better to ask how you can achieve certain privileges, rather than discuss others.

I'm bored

Even if it's true, do not tell your boss about your boredom. You get paid for making you productive, and it's up to you to find ways to make your work interesting.

Can I talk about this with your boss?

If you want to step over the head of your boss because of some problem, then most likely, more than others will suffer from this. If you are going to apply to higher management, do not threaten it beforehand.

I do not have a solution

Do not tell the boss about the problems, if you do not have possible solutions. Leaders talk about solutions, followers - about problems.

I want to tell you about last night

Sometimes the relationship between the boss and the staff is friendly. But sharing intimate stories at work is not the wisest decision.

Why does he have it, but I do not?

Focus on your own career, not on the salary or promotion of others, unless, of course, you witness a blatant favoritism. If this is the case, then it is worth sticking to a more professional discussion as soon as you collect all your thoughts about these facts.

I am really busy. It can wait?

Your duty is to ask the boss if the priorities have changed, since your goals should be consistent with the company's goals. Priorities at work often change, so it's better to ask what is required of you and how quickly you have to do everything.

It's impossible

Your manager does not want to hear about negativity or lack of enthusiasm. If you run into problems that you can not solve on your own, you should seek help. The best approach is to share your thoughts with the boss or ask questions that will allow you to put yourself in his place.

I will not be tomorrow. I need to leave early.

Do not put your boss before the fact of the alleged weekend, it's better to ask or politely ask for it. This approach is more professional.

Can I leave early today? Anyway, I have nothing to do

There is nothing wrong with asking to leave early if you need it. But do not say that you still have no business or you have already done all the work. The office always has something to do, and your boss would like you to take the initiative.