Conflicts at work can be tricky to navigate. Whether dealing with a difficult coworker or trying to get your point across in a meeting, our words can make a big difference. In this blog post, I uncover 23 phrases you should avoid saying at work to help you steer clear of conflict and maintain a positive work environment.
“That’s not my job.”
This phrase can come across as dismissive and unwilling to help. Instead, try offering to assist or suggest someone who might be better equipped to handle the task. Saying “that’s not my job” shuts down communication and can make your coworkers feel like you don’t care about their needs. It’s important to be a team player and find ways to help, even if the task isn’t directly in your wheelhouse.
“I told you so.”
Gloating about being right won’t help solve the problem at hand. Instead, focus on finding a solution and moving forward. This phrase is condescending and can damage trust between coworkers. It’s better to approach the situation constructively and look for ways to prevent the issue from happening again.
“You’re wrong.”
Telling someone they’re wrong, especially in front of others, can be seen as confrontational. Try rephrasing it as “I see it differently” or “Let’s discuss this further.” Accusing someone of being wrong puts them on the defensive and can escalate the conflict. It’s important to approach disagreements with empathy and an open mind.
“I’m too busy for that.”
While we all have a lot on our plates, this phrase can make others feel like their requests aren’t important. Instead, suggest a better time to discuss the task or offer to delegate it to someone else. Saying you’re too busy shuts down communication and can make your coworkers feel like their work isn’t a priority. It’s essential to find ways to help, even if you’re juggling multiple projects.
“That’s a stupid idea.”
Calling someone’s idea “stupid” is an insult that can damage their self-confidence and discourage them from sharing their thoughts in the future. Instead, try saying, “I have a different perspective” or “Let’s explore some other options.”
“It’s not my fault.”
Blaming others rarely helps resolve a conflict. Instead, take responsibility for your part in the situation and focus on finding a solution. Saying, “It’s not my fault,” makes you seem defensive and unwilling to collaborate.
“We’ve always done it that way.”
This phrase resists change and can make your coworkers feel like their ideas aren’t valued. Be open to trying new approaches and listen to your team’s suggestions for improving processes.
“That’s not my problem.”
This phrase comes across as uncaring and unwilling to help. Instead, offer to assist or redirect the issue to the appropriate person. Everyone should feel like they’re part of a supportive team.
“I don’t have time for this.”
While your schedule may be full, expressing frustration in this way can damage relationships. Politely explain that you’re currently occupied and suggest a better time to address the issue.
“That’s above my pay grade.”
This phrase implies that you’re unwilling to take on additional responsibilities, even if they could benefit the team. Instead, express your willingness to learn and grow in your role.
“It’s not my job to _.”
Similar to “that’s not my job,” this phrase can come across as unwilling to help. Offer to assist or redirect the task to the appropriate person.
“I’m the expert here.”
This phrase can make your coworkers feel inferior and discourage them from sharing their own valuable insights. Approach discussions with a collaborative spirit.
“That will never work.”
Shutting down ideas before exploring their potential is counterproductive. Instead, offer constructive feedback and suggest ways the idea could be improved.
“I don’t get paid enough for this.”
Complaining about your compensation in front of your coworkers is unprofessional and can breed resentment. If you have concerns about your pay, address them privately with your manager.
“That’s not how we do things around here.”
This phrase resists change and can make your coworkers feel like their ideas aren’t valued. Be open to trying new approaches and listen to your team’s suggestions for improving processes.
“I don’t care.”
This phrase conveys a complete lack of concern and can damage morale. Even if you disagree with someone’s perspective, try to approach the situation with empathy and understanding.
“It’s not my problem.”
Similar to “that’s not my problem,” this phrase comes across as uncaring and unwilling to help. Offer to assist or redirect the issue to the appropriate person.
“Calm down.”
Telling someone to “calm down” when they’re already upset can escalate the situation. Instead, try to understand their perspective and suggest taking a break to regroup.
“I don’t have time to explain.”
This phrase can make your coworkers feel like their questions or concerns aren’t important. Take the time to provide a clear explanation, or suggest a better time to discuss the issue.
“I don’t know how to do that.”
While it’s important to be honest about your skills and limitations, this phrase can make you seem incapable. Offer to learn or suggest someone who might be better equipped to handle the task.
“That’s not my responsibility.”
Similar to “that’s not my job,” this phrase can come across as dismissive and unwilling to help. Offer to assist or redirect the task to the appropriate person.
“I don’t have the resources for that.”
This phrase can make your coworkers feel like their requests are being ignored. Instead, explain the constraints you’re facing and suggest alternative solutions or ways to prioritize the task.
“I don’t have the time for that right now.”
While you may be juggling multiple priorities, this phrase can make your coworkers feel like their work isn’t important. Offer to discuss the task at a better time or suggest ways to delegate or rearrange your schedule.
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