Talk is cheap, but it can cost you a lot. It’s easy to slip up on conversation at the workplace water cooler and soon find yourself sucking down your big toe before you even realize your foot is in your mouth. We’ve all done it, and we’ve all lived to regret it. Saying the wrong thing, even if meant well, can cost you a raise, a promotion, or even your job. Here are some things you should never say to your boss.
“Not my problem.”
It may very well not be your problem, but simply stating so acknowledges that you recognize a problem exists and you refuse to do anything about it. There’s so much going on that nobody can keep up with it all, and that’s understandable, but bosses expect everyone to pitch in. By throwing the work onto somebody else you are denying more than responsibility. You are showing that you are unwilling to find a solution. Jump in and solve the dilemma. Your boss is likely to remember this the next time you ask for a raise.
“Impossible. I can’t do it.”
Even if a job is difficult, never admit that it’s beyond your grasp, even if it is. Be vocal about the fact that you are willing to try. Offer compromises or other solutions that might work. Stating that the work is impossible reflects shortsighted thinking. If something is beyond the capacity of your deadline, offer an alternative solution. It’s okay to admit when things are beyond your abilities, but offer other solutions that can help to solve the problem.
“I am still hung over.”
Believe it or not, this excuse is actually used in the work place. If you are hung over, you must pay the price and work through it. Stating that you are hung over implies you are just going to slosh through the day and be unproductive. Worse, it’s a sign that you can’t separate business from your personal life and that you lack discretion. Additionally, it could give off signs of dependency issues, which wave red flags when it comes time for promotions and extra responsibilities.
“They don’t pay me enough for this.”
That may be so, but if it’s enough of a problem, find your own solution instead of taking it out on your boss. If the pay is too low for the workload, put your talents to better use or find another job. Don’t just complain to your boss. Save it for happy hour friends or a call with your mother.
“I don’t need anyone to teach me.”
Instead of implying that you already know what you are doing, this statement shows you aren’t willing to learn. There’s nothing worse on the job than a massive ego or a poor attitude. It’s irritating to assume you already know all there is to learn. Keep your ears and your mind open. There’s always something new to learn every day.
“I never got around to it.”
It’s understandable to be busy, but this statement implies that you have no follow through. Explain instead that it’s on your plate and you are working on it. Not everything can be done in a given day, but there’s a difference between being too busy and just procrastinating. Make the work happen and follow-through.
“Don’t blame me. It’s not my fault.”
Far more annoying than making a mistake is covering it up and laying the blame on somebody else. Accept responsibilities for errors. Nobody’s perfect. Suggest ways you will remedy the problem in the future. Find solutions to fix the mistake so it never happens again. Own up when things go badly. If someone else truly was at error, explain it to your boss in a private conversation. Never shift the blame when you’re just standing at the water cooler.
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