What Not to Say at Work If You Want to Succeed: Tips for a Successful Career

03.10.2024 20:15

Not only a lack of experience and professional skills, but also communication errors hinder career growth.

Don't say such phrases if you want to succeed in your business.

"Before you get down to business, we need to discuss..."

These words, spoken at 9am, when a person hasn’t even had time to drink coffee, especially on Monday, act like a cold shower.

The colleague is still half asleep, or he has a very important task that he wants to do immediately after coming to the office. And he won’t like your persistence.

It's better to ask the person how their weekend was, and then ask them to let you know when they have time to discuss a work issue.

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Photo: Pixabay

"My colleague (assistant) did not pass this information on to me"

Yes, it happens that your assistant or employee made a mistake. But do not say this phrase to a client or boss. This way you admit that you were unable to organize the work effectively. Or that you have a bad relationship with the team.

Instead, say, "I can't give you a specific answer right now. I'll check with my colleague (assistant) and give you an answer."

"I am ready to work at any time"

And the boss immediately gets your phone number, email address and assurances that you will answer him at 9 pm and on weekends. You are not sure of your need and usefulness for your company. You try to show how devoted and valuable an employee you are.

It would seem, how can these positive qualities harm? They can. A person who does not value his time, who sacrifices family, rest and health for the sake of work, is not very appreciated.

And they are in no hurry to raise you. Such a paradox. Therefore, agree immediately how and when you will communicate with your boss when you are out of the office, if something out of the ordinary happens that cannot wait until Monday. Let the rest wait.

“I understand that I should have finished this, but I can’t ignore my family, it’s more important to me!”

You are right, of course. Family and children are more important than work. But such categorical statements spoil relations with management, as they show your disrespect for employees and work.

There are people who are willing to sacrifice their personal time for success, so respect their choice. Arrogance will come back to haunt you: your boss will remember these words of yours when he or she decides whether to promote you or not.

If you can't stay in the office longer, politely explain. Offer to help by phone or Skype, for example, after seven in the evening. Try to stay up to date with things.

"Are you still digging? I've already done everything!"

If you work much faster than your colleagues, you don’t need to emphasize this at every opportunity. Everyone is different and works at different paces.

The management already sees both the speed and the results of your work, and your employees have long appreciated your mobility. Do not offend them by pointing out your lack of efficiency. When you have already done your share of work, offer to help your colleague.

"I found out that the employees of a competitor company have higher salaries. And a cooler office. They're lucky!"

Yes, there are companies that pay better than you. And the working conditions are more pleasant. But with such a phrase you make it clear that if you are tempted by a salary increase, you will change your job without thinking twice. Such disloyalty will not please your colleagues and boss.

Emphasize that each company has its pros and cons. That company has a higher salary, you have interesting projects and a close-knit team.

"Become a boss? I don't need that."

You turn down a promotion offer, saying that you enjoy your job. This is great if you are sincere. But if you say it out of coquetry, afraid to admit that you have career ambitions, then in vain. Don't expect them to persuade you. "No" means "no", and the boss will offer the position to someone else.

Be honest and say that you expect to grow both professionally and in your career.

Earlier I talked about why people don’t value themselves .

Vitaly Kisterny Author: Vitaly Kisterny Director


Content
  1. "Before you get down to business, we need to discuss..."
  2. "My colleague (assistant) did not pass this information on to me"
  3. "I am ready to work at any time"
  4. “I understand that I should have finished this, but I can’t ignore my family, it’s more important to me!”
  5. "Are you still digging? I've already done everything!"
  6. "I found out that the employees of a competitor company have higher salaries. And a cooler office. They're lucky!"
  7. "Become a boss? I don't need that."