Sometimes the things you say may seem innocent, but if you’re not careful, they can be misinterpreted by those around you. For that reason, there are some bad phrases for work that you should try to avoid at all costs. Office etiquette plays a crucial role in maintaining a harmonious environment. What you say, no matter how innocently intended, can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. Here are 12 bad phrases for work that could land you in hot water if you’re not careful.
1. “That’s not my job.”
This phrase can come off as uncooperative or dismissive, suggesting a lack of flexibility or teamwork. You may not be responsible for a certain task but that doesn’t mean you should wash your hands of it immediately. Instead of outright refusal, consider helping the person asking to find the right person for the job. Respond with something along the lines of, “I believe this might be more in line with [another team member’s] expertise. I’ll reach out to them directly.”
2. “I’ll try.”
Some bad phrases seem innocuous enough, but over time, they don’t sit well with the person on the receiving end. For instance, “I’ll try” can sometimes sound like you’re not fully committed to delivering on the job. It’s better to be clear about what you can do. For instance, saying “I will do it,” or if you’re unsure, “I can confirm by the end of day after reviewing my workload.” These phrases come across as more proactive and reliable.
3. “No problem.”
The phrase “no problem” is often up for debate when it comes to office etiquette. Experts believe that using this phrase to respond to a “thank you” implies that the task could have been a problem in the first place. To keep things positive and professional, you might want to respond with “You’re welcome!” or “Happy to help!” Keep the word “no” out of your vocabulary!
4. “I think…”
You want to come across as confident on the job. Therefore, starting sentences with “I think” makes you seem unsure, undermining your authority or credibility. Strengthen your statements with confidence by dropping the qualifier completely. Consider also using smarty-pants phrases like “In my opinion,” or “From what I have observed.”
5. “It’s impossible.”
Good employees have a can-do attitude. When you say something is impossible, you’re immediately shutting down potential solutions for an issue. This phrase also portrays a negative attitude. Instead, focus on what can be done, suggesting alternatives like, “This is challenging, but let’s explore what options we might have.”
6. “We’ve always done it this way.”
Resistance to change is a common feeling in many professional settings. Those who have a hard time adapting may utter this phrase, which has the power to defer innovation in the workplace. A more constructive approach could be to consider the change being implemented and respond accordingly. Employers want their staff to be adaptable, flexible, and always willing to push the envelope.
7. “It’s not fair.”
While it’s important to voice concerns about fairness, this phrase can sometimes sound childish or overly emotional. Management will think you’re being difficult or throwing a tantrum, which won’t help you get what you want. Frame your concerns in terms of equity and effectiveness. Phrases like “I’ve noticed some inconsistencies” or “Could we meet to discuss this in person?” show that you care about your job.
8. “This will only take a minute.”
It may seem innocent to say it will only take a minute. After all, you don’t literally mean it will take a minute. However, other people could view it as you are underestimating the time something will take. Avoid evoking feelings of frustration and mistrust. Be honest about time commitments with phrases like, “This should take about X minutes. Does that work for you?”
9. “I forgot.”
Everyone forgets things now and then, but repeatedly saying “I forgot” can make you appear unreliable. Add this to the list of bad phrases for work, especially sent over email. Instead, take responsibility and focus for the oversight and take actionable steps to get it taken care of asap. You can say things like, “I will make sure this is prioritized today.” Be sure to follow through!
10. You should have…”
Relationship experts often advise people against starting with the word “you” to resolve conflicts. Phrases, like “you should have,” come across as blaming and confrontational. It’s more productive to focus on moving forward and solving the issue collaboratively with phrases like, “Let’s see how we can fix this together.”
11. “Just a sec.”
Even if you mean this literally, saying “just a sec” can feel dismissive if you don’t attend to the person quickly. It almost comes across as if your time is more valuable than their time. Be mindful of your phrasing and consider saying, “Got it! I’ll be with you as soon as I can.” A statement like this shows you understand and are acknowledging their needs, but it doesn’t provide a definitive time to get it done. Just make sure you get back to them!
12. “Calm down.”
If you want to make an angry person even more angry, tell them to calm down. This phrase usually has the opposite effect, escalating the tension. It’s better to address the emotions calmly and empathetically. C0nflicts happen at work all the time, but a simple “Let’s take a moment to sort this out,” or “I understand this is frustrating.” can work wonders on getting the issue resolved in an amicable manner.
Watch Your Words
The language we use in the workplace significantly influences how our coworkers and management see us as an employee. Avoid these bad phrases so you don’t leave a negative impression, even unintentionally. By choosing your words carefully and considering how they might be received, you’ll enjoy a happier, more productive workplace. You may even forge friendships with the people you work with!
Read More:
12 Words That Were Added to the Dictionary Because of Social Media
12 Phrases You Should Never Use With People From Up North
Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.
