17 Phrases That Can Cost You Your Job—Avoid Saying These at Work

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclaimer.

Communication with your boss can be stressful, especially when trying to make a good impression and avoid saying the wrong thing. Some phrases can get you into trouble, especially if your boss is demanding. Sometimes, it’s better to stay quiet and let things settle instead of saying something that could harm your reputation. To help you stay on track, here are a few things you should avoid saying to your boss if you want to keep your job safe!

It’s Not My Fault

Photo credit: Canva Pro

It’s incredibly frustrating to be blamed for something you didn’t do. But quickly quipping that a specific action or mishap isn’t your fault can be career-wrecking, primarily if you work with a team. It might seem unfair at that moment, but staying calm will work in your favor because the truth will eventually come out.

That’s Not My Job

Photo credit: Canva Pro

Although no worker should be exploited for their skills or labor, sometimes, you must take whatever is thrown your way. Telling your boss something isn’t a part of your job conveys that you aren’t open to taking newer roles, so you might sabotage your chances of being considered for a better role.

You Are Wrong

Photo credit: Canva Pro

The person in charge of a workplace or team might not always be correct, but people in power often hold themselves high and feel insulted when corrected. Instead of publicly calling out a mistake, it’s better to present a report of your findings without placing blame so your boss can naturally come to the correct conclusion without being put on the spot.

I’m Very Busy With Tasks, Can It Wait?

Photo credit: Canva Pro

Managing deadlines and workload is tough, but some tasks take precedence over others, especially if they come directly from your boss. Sometimes, managers or people in power hand over tasks to the person they believe is the most capable, so prioritizing other tasks conveys unprofessional behavior.

This Task Is Above My Pay Grade

Photo credit: Canva Pro

Although no one wants to take on tasks that might not be part of their official designation, sometimes workplaces have unexpected projects. If your boss is handing you a task, it’s possible they see you as capable/the right candidate. If you’re uncomfortable with the task, it’s better to discuss it with a manager to work toward a solution.

I Just Assumed This

Photo credit: Canva Pro

Most workplaces have rules and regulations, and although they might not be strictly imposed, they’re still important. Assuming specific actions, processes, and policies are bad enough, voicing this out to someone in the administration is worse because it means you aren’t serious enough to do the research.

I Cannot Work With That Person

Photo credit: Canva Pro

We all have someone we don’t get along with in the workplace, but personal differences shouldn’t interfere with a professional setting. Your boss might actually consider you unfit for the position or project because your words mean you aren’t professional enough. If you are dealing with a severe problem with a particular colleague, inform the higher-ups and the H.R., but don’t say this.

I Heard That Employee Got A Raise

Photo credit: Canva Pro

We all want to climb up that ladder, but work performance varies from person to person. You might think you’re ready for a raise, but talking about someone else will put your boss in a corner or give the impression that you’re trying to force a raise. Even when discussing your raise, it’s better to focus on your performance instead of the status of others.

You’re A Toxic Person

Photo credit: Canva Pro

It is tempting to tell a toxic employer this, but it will hurt you more than it hurts them. Saying such things can sabotage your career because your employer might even contact potential future employers and convey that you’re unprofessional. Instead of blurting such statements out, it’s better to calm down and redirect your anger.

Whatever

Photo Credit: Canva Pro

This word can single-handedly ruin your career because it is disrespectful and unprofessional. Saying whatever implies you genuinely do not care what happens to the company or your project. This will prompt your employer to reconsider future roles and projects and push you to the sidelines.

Can I Have a Day Off? I’ve An Interview

Photo credit: Canva Pro

Although we’d like to stay truthful, it’s better to say a white lie or mask the reason because otherwise, you’d accept an unemployment letter. No employer will want to keep working with an employee who’s clearly seeking another position, so if you are looking for an out, remain discreet and don’t share your goals.

That Employee Did This Or That

Photo credit: Canva Pro

Playing the blame game at work will never work because while you may get off scot-free, every employee will see you as unworthy of their trust. It’s even worse for people working in or managing teams because it conveys that they aren’t as effective a team player as believed.

I Need A Raise, Or I’m Quitting

Photo Credit: Canva Pro

Telling your boss you’ll quit if you don’t get a raise can really hurt your relationship with them. It’s better to approach salary talks calmly and with solid reasons for why you deserve more. Try to show how your work adds value to the company. Keeping the conversation professional will get you further.

This Place Is A Mess

Photo Credit: Canva Pro

Saying the company is a mess can come off as really disrespectful. If you have issues with how things are run, it’s more productive to offer constructive feedback and suggest solutions. Complaining without offering help doesn’t solve anything. Approach it as wanting to improve things for everyone.

That Is Not In My Contract

Photo credit: Canva Pro

Saying, “That’s not in my contract,” can make you look rigid and uncooperative. Instead, talk about your concerns and how you can pitch in while still respecting your role. Show that you’re ready to be a team player. It highlights your willingness to go the extra mile.

I Don’t Care

Photo credit: Canva Pro

Even if you’re feeling indifferent, show some level of commitment and respect. Saying “I don’t care” makes you look unprofessional and disengaged. Instead, try to find something about the task that you can connect with or at least approach it with a positive attitude.

I Deserve More Recognition

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Not being recognized at work is hurtful especially when you are putting in effort day in day out. But saying it outright can out you in the wrong spotlight. You may come across as fishing for compliments or undermining your colleague’s efforts. Be patient, keep on working hard and let your results speak for themselves.

More For You

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Micromanaging bosses can make work stressful. Do you feel constantly monitored at work? Here are some typical behaviors that indicate you might be experiencing micromanagement.

This article was first published at Rbitaliablog.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.