Sometimes even a casual remark can have a visible and lasting impact. Maybe you have just heard some bad news about your project and came up with a perfect response to lessen the impact. Or you have just managed to win over a difficult client with a professional response to their email. But the opposite can also apply ...
If you use the wrong language and express frustration, disillusionment or disagreement you can greatly harm yourself. You give the impression that you are not a team player, you do not know how to deal with conflicts or you simply do not know how to do your job. Such a reputation is hard to shake off, which is why The Daily Muse has prepared seven phrases you rather should not say at work.
"I cannot work with her/him."
It is not always a given that you will get on well with everyone. Each of us has a different style of working and communicating with others. Instead of complaining about the other person, focus more on improving the relationship. Focus on the other person's wishes and try to gain an ally instead of an enemy. Choose phrases diplomatically and start with the words "I feel that...".
"I cannot do it."
Instead of excuses to your boss that you are not able to complete a task because you just cannot catch up, compile a list of tasks and ask him or her to help you with identifying priorities. Use a similar strategy even if you are not sure what to do. Find someone who will help you and be willing to learn.
"It will not work."
Whenever you say this sentence while brainstorming with colleagues, you immediately stop the creative process. Even if you really believe something is not possible, focus more on a constructive response than a negative conclusion. Also, mind your body language: eye contact or sighing signal your opposition.
"Why him/her and not me?"
Whether it is a bonus, flexible working hours, or promotion that your colleague received, lamentations will not help you. It is possible that you do not know all the details of each situation of every colleague in the team, so you will always judge according to your own experiences and needs. If you want something (e.g. promotion), do not be afraid to ask for it, but always have prepared a specific reason why and never use the situation of your colleagues as a comparison.
"Do you know what I heard?"
Gossip is an irresistible part of almost every working environment - especially if you are bored or feel unnoticed. You can listen to everything, but refrain from contributing to any conversation that could endanger your reputation. Such information spreads fast and you never know when it might turn against you.
"It is not my fault."
This is a simple defensive reaction, which is understandable because, after all, you do not want to damage your own reputation. However, taking responsibility for one's own actions distinguishes the successful from unsuccessful employees. Instead of self-defence, look for solutions and find out what you can do to remedy the situation.
"In my previous job..."
There is nothing so annoying as comparing the current situation in the company with situations you have experienced in your previous job. You make others feel that you probably should return to your previous company. Therefore, in your own interest, use your previous projects only as an opportunity to observe and compare how things are done in your new company.
Which sentence do you hear the most in your team?
-bn-