Honesty is the best policy in the workplace — but like any rule, this one has a few exceptions.
“It’s important to be cautious with what you say to your boss, as even the slightest slip up could make or break your career,” says Ryan Kahn
“There are the obvious things to hold back from saying to your boss, but the key is to dissect the little things in your interactions.”
“There are certain comments and questions based on negative perspectives that can set you back with your boss,” she says. “If they continue unabated, these phrases can sabotage an otherwise great job.”
I Word Understanding
Cautious– careful to avoid potential problems or dangers
Slightest– small
Slip up– get something wrong
Dissect– analyze
Unabated– without weakening in strength or force
II Have your say
1. Do you think talking to boss is a stressful thing?
Here are the words and phrases you should never utter to your boss:
If you say these phrases to your boss what would happen?
• Can I leave early today since things are slow?
• I can’t- shows both a lack of confidence and unwillingness to take chances
• That’s not part of my job’
• ‘I’m pretty busy. Can it wait?’
• Telling your boss ‘no’ is a challenge
• We all “try” to get things done to our best ability
• ‘That’s not what I heard’
• ‘How do I benefit from this?’
• A straight, ‘I’m sorry. I’ll be much more aware of this next time
• My break-up has got me all messed up. My heart’s just not in it today
2. Have you had good or bad bosses?
3. Can anyone be a good boss?
4. Would you like to be a boss (why)?
