Ever find yourself on the fence with what you should or should not mention to your boss? It happens to everyone. You know that it’s best to be up-front and honest, but being discreet and playing the office politics often comes into play. Additionally, it’s your boss! So, you want to present yourself in the best light possible at all times. For the most part, if you’re feeling unsure, you should proceed with caution, keeping in mind – your boss has the ability to make or break your role at the company. Still not exactly sure where to draw the line? Keep reading for a roundup of things you should never say to your boss.
8 Things You Should Never Say to Your Boss
1. “I am too busy because of my other job” – that’s the last thing your boss wants to hear, be sure to keep yourself focused on the job at hand and all other work confidential. One should not have any effect on the other.
2. “I can’t” – remember a positive attitude will always portray you in the best light and that means having a can-do attitude. If a project is too big or a task is overwhelming, take a solution-based approach rather than throwing your hands up.
3. “No” – of course there are going to be times when you just don’t have time or you’re stretched incredibly thin, but rather than simply saying no, provide a solution. Ask your boss to help you prioritize to figure out what can be shifted around to accomplish this added task or request.
4. “It’s not my fault” – placing blame elsewhere is definitely not the best tactic for presenting yourself in the best light – take responsibility for your team and your own mistakes.
5. “I can’t come in today because I was out so late last night” – not being in tip top shape to perform your job because you were out late with your friends the night before is definitely not something you should highlight to your boss. They want to know you’re reliable – despite what happens outside of work.
6. “I’m bored” – part of your job is always going to be to stay busy and think ahead to the next project you can tackle, so rather than express boredom present new ideas and potential projects to your boss.
7. “If you don’t ________, I will quit” – threatening anyone is certainly not the way to get on their best side and definitely not your boss. Only give your notice when you’re absolutely serious because in many situations once you say you’re leaving, there’s no taking it back.
8. “I don’t know” – you certainly may not know all the answers, all of the time – but you can promise to find out. Let your boss know you’ll get to the bottom of the issue and will get back to him or her with an answer/solution.
The bottom line is this: your boss wants to know you’re a team player who is ready to tackle the next challenge with a positive and enthusiastic attitude. So take the opportunity to show off exactly what you can do rather than what you can’t. Do you ever struggle with what exactly to say to your boss?
