17 Things You Should Never Say to Your Boss

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"Leave me alone!"

I said it to my boss at Radio Disney many years ago. I was a young, very high-performingsalesperson, and he was my sales manager. Even though I was generating huge salesnumbers, I was often late to work, or meetings, and every morning, as I passed by hisoffice, he would look down at his watch and shake his head disapprovingly.

I knew I was wrong to be late, but I got increasingly frustrated by his looking down at thatwatch, his complaints to me, and his lack of positive recognition about my salesaccomplishments. So one day, after coming in at 9:05, just 5 minutes late, and seeing himlook down at that watch again, I marched right into his office and told him to leave mealone.

I got sent home that day by my boss. We eventually mended things, and came to anunderstanding about how important punctuality was to him, and how important positivefeedback was to me. But our relationship was never totally mended.

Fifteen years later, now I am a boss, and have had my share of interesting things said tome. I believe all leaders and managers should try to keep an open mind and encourageopen communication from all of their reports. Still, perhaps there are some things better leftunsaid? To find out the answers to this question, I asked 17 young "bosses" -- leaders fromThe Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) -- what the worst thing they'd ever been told is.Here are their answers, or what not to say to your boss, followed by my own personalanswer to the question:

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17 Things You Should Never Say to Your Boss

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1 of 10 4/5/14, 8:52 PM

In China, it is very common for a lot of employees to work just forthe money. This means they will leave if you fail to give them a raiseor if their peers start to make a lot more money than they do. Ourinterview process has filtered this as much as possible but if wehear through the "grapevine" that the person is just doing the job forthe money we will let them go very quickly.

- Derek Capo, CEO and Founder, Next Step China

2. 'You Never Told Me to Do It'

When something important doesn't get done, the worst thing youcan say is, "You never asked me to do it." There are few betterways to neglect yourself of that promotion, a raise, or even jobsecurity.

- Ken Cauley, President, Advanced Media

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3. 'There's Something Wrong'

It's easy to complain about what's wrong. It's hard to come up withsolutions to fix the problem. My former manager at LivingSocialsaid, "Be a problem solver, not spotter," and I've taken this advice toheart in my everyday life. If you see a problem, don't address thesituation with what's wrong; address the situation with an answer. Ifyou don't have a real solution, wait until you do.

- Sarah Ware, Markerly

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4. 'I Want to Do What's Easiest'

We have a client who had an employee literally explain that hewould rather do a particularly menial task than the task that theemployer had assigned because it would be easier for him. Wewere shocked. This is the most explicit way to alert your boss thatyou don't care about improving your skill set without directly tellinghim. Never do this if you care about your career!

- Patrick Conley, Founder / CEO, Automation Heroes

5. 'That Takes Up Too Much Time'

Through the years, we have had many operational restructuringsthat have required large amounts of data to be filtered and edited orre-formatted in some manner. There's nothing worse than anemployee who complains about the amount of time required tomove the company to the next level.

- Laura Land, CFO / COO, Accessory Export, LLC

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6. 'I Could Be Doing Other Things'

Bratty much? Don't complain about your job. If you hate it, quit. Ifthere's something wrong with it, find a way to fix it. If someone orsomething is really ticking you off, don't project your anger ontoothers, especially not your boss. If it's a good job, be grateful for it.If you want more out of your job, make it happen. Be diplomatic



2 of 10 4/5/14, 8:52 PM

- Danny Wong, Co-founder, Blank Label

7. 'I Promise to Do That'

Don't ever tell your boss you're able to do something if you knowyou may not be able to deliver. It is better to be honest, ask foradvice and have a proactive attitude. If you fail to deliver, then it hasnegative repercussions for the business, which is taken much moreseriously.

- Christopher Pruijsen, Co-Founder / Partnerships, Afrostart.io

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8. 'It's Too Difficult'

I get fired up when someone is paralyzed and doesn’t complete atask because it’s difficult or because few others have done it. We’rea disruptive company that has to innovate, that has to do things fewhave done before us. One of my advisors here has a quote: “If itwere easy, everyone would be doing it.” We won’t win if we don’tthink big.

- Marcos Cordero, Chief Gradsaver, GradSave, LLC

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9. 'I Agree to Disagree'

Whether it is said explicitly or passive-aggressively, this mindsethas no place in startup culture. Those who have this mindset shouldeither found their own startups or go work in big corporate Americawhere this goes unnoticed. At a startup, you're either all the way inor all the way out.

- Danny Boice, Co-Founder & CTO, Speek

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10. 'I Don't Have an Opinion'

The people who just sit and nod their heads are the ones who areexpendable. If you want to make an impression as a valuablemember of the team, offer your insights. No one ever agrees withhis boss 100 percent all the time, so make your opinion known ifyou have something worth saying.

- Nick Friedman, President, College Hunks Hauling Junk andCollege Hunks Moving

11. 'I Can't'

I don’t want to hear excuses ever! We focus on hiring can-do,positive, creative employees with passion, drive and determination.

- Kuba Jewgieniew, Founder and CEO, Realty ONE Group

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12. 'I'm Not Optimistic'

The most important thing for any team member is to stay optimistic.Being a pessimist and doubting the future of the company is a realdowner. There is nothing wrong with being realistic; however,people who are melancholy suck the life out of an early-stagecompany and cannot last long.



3 of 10 4/5/14, 8:52 PM

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13. 'I'm Clocked Out'

There is nothing more discouraging to an entrepreneur than whenan employee says he is not willing to go the extra mile because heisn't "clocked in." We remind our employees that they work for ayoung company and they are in control of their own careers. Actingwithin the status quo never gets you to the top!

- Darren Solomon, President, Kid Ventures

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14. 'That's Not My Responsibility'

It’s critical that everyone feels invested in the success of all areas ofthe business. Everyone should be willing to pitch in, even if what’srequired isn’t part of their normal day-to-day activities.

- Robert J. Moore, Co-Founder and CEO, RJMetrics

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15. 'That's Not My Job'

Your responsibilities aren't limited to what was listed in your originaljob description -- especially at a startup. Unless your boss is askingyou to do something illegal or unethical, you should do it.

- Mary Ellen Slayter, Founder/Managing Director, ReputationCapital

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16. 'I Don't Like Working for Other People'

An employee actually told me that he didn't like working for otherpeople. That person doesn't work for me anymore!

- Andrew Angus, CEO, Switch Video

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17. 'I'm Not Working Hard'

I never want to know that someone who works for me isn’t workinghard. People can disagree with me, and I’m fine to hear criticism. I’llnever lose respect for anyone because he disagrees with me orbecause they failed. I don’t want to know if someone is giving lessthan their best effort or that someone lied. I have high expectationsof people when it comes to their work ethic.

- Dries Buytaert, Co-founder and CTO, Drupal

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As for me? I can actually handle, even encourage, most of the statements above beingsaid to me, because as long as they're honest, they'll help me build a better company andhelp my employees find their place, either at one of my companies or elsewhere. I'd ratherknow what people really think, so I encourage people to feel comfortable saying anything tome. The one thing I think you should never say to me or your boss? A lie. I've writtenbefore about the importance and power of honesty. In employee - manager relations,



4 of 10 4/5/14, 8:52 PM

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Always tell the truth to your boss, and never tell a lie.

Lies are too risky - not only to your relationship with your boss, but to yourrelationship with yourself.

-----

Now it's your turn. What's the worst thing you've ever said to your boss? What's the worstthing you've ever been told at work? What do you think the worst thing someone can sayto a manager is? Which of the above statements do you agree with, and disagree with?Please let me know in the Comments section below.

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If you liked this article, you will LOVE my new book,Likeable Leadership, a collection of 65 inspirationalstories on marketing, your career, social media, andmore!

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Dave Kerpen is the founder and CEO of LikeableLocal. He is also the cofounder and Chairman ofLikeable Media, and the New York Times bestsellingauthor of Likeable Social Media and LikeableBusiness, and the just-released LikeableLeadership. To read more from Dave on LinkedIn,please click the FOLLOW button above or below.

The Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC), is an invite-onlyorganization comprised of the world's most promising young entrepreneurs. In partnershipwith Citi, the YEC recently launched #StartupLab, a free virtual mentorship program thathelps millions of entrepreneurs start and grow businesses via live video chats, an expertcontent library and email lessons.

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5 of 10 4/5/14, 8:52 PM

CEO at Pearls.com | Chief Marketing Officer | Chief Digital Strategist | E-CommerceCEO at Pearls.com | Chief Marketing Officer | Chief Digital Strategist | E-CommerceLeader | Social Media ExpertLeader | Social Media ExpertI find it interesting that some of the 17 statements are mutually incompatible in my viewpoint.I find it interesting that some of the 17 statements are mutually incompatible in my viewpoint.E.g. don't say "I promise to do that" if you can't... but don't say "I can't" either. In sum total, I feelE.g. don't say "I promise to do that" if you can't... but don't say "I can't" either. In sum total, I feelvaguely bad for employees faced with what is, in many ways a stew of mixed messages.vaguely bad for employees faced with what is, in many ways a stew of mixed messages.

Again, I understand it's the nature of this question, but (especially if you're not allowed to be "inAgain, I understand it's the nature of this question, but (especially if you're not allowed to be "init for the money") why should employees be charged up, motivated, gung-ho and energized atit for the money") why should employees be charged up, motivated, gung-ho and energized atall times? Why shouldn't they "clock out" sometimes and recharge/have a life? Why aren't theyall times? Why shouldn't they "clock out" sometimes and recharge/have a life? Why aren't theyallowed to have periods (we all do) of not being optimistic? Is it really so bad to "agree toallowed to have periods (we all do) of not being optimistic? Is it really so bad to "agree todisagree" versus lying and being a "yes-man" when you don't in fact agree? Heck, I've said thatdisagree" versus lying and being a "yes-man" when you don't in fact agree? Heck, I've said thatone myself... to CEO's in fact: "It's your decision and I'll go execute it like a demon, but I'm notone myself... to CEO's in fact: "It's your decision and I'll go execute it like a demon, but I'm notgoing to tell you I agree with it when I don't."going to tell you I agree with it when I don't."

On that latter note, I think Dave actually nails it in his summary: honesty trumps all and I'dOn that latter note, I think Dave actually nails it in his summary: honesty trumps all and I'dalways rather hear the truth than "what I want to hear"... In some ways, taken in aggregate andalways rather hear the truth than "what I want to hear"... In some ways, taken in aggregate andno disrespect to those who shared, the list of 17 almost creates a "just lie to me, okay?"no disrespect to those who shared, the list of 17 almost creates a "just lie to me, okay?"scenario.scenario.

I'd much rather have an employee admit to being pessimistic (right now), to being "clocked out"I'd much rather have an employee admit to being pessimistic (right now), to being "clocked out"(right now) or even to being just plain tired, than get happy-peppy fake talk. All those things I(right now) or even to being just plain tired, than get happy-peppy fake talk. All those things Ican manage to success. But bright, chipper, positive, "sure thing boss!" energy that's actuallycan manage to success. But bright, chipper, positive, "sure thing boss!" energy that's actuallyBS covering the real humanity of getting tired, getting down, getting frustrated or just simply notBS covering the real humanity of getting tired, getting down, getting frustrated or just simply notagreeing? This eventually falls apart no matter what.agreeing? This eventually falls apart no matter what.LikeLike(2,177)(2,177) ReplyReply(94)(94) 6 months ago6 months ago

Koen TheunisKoen TheunisHospitality Consultancy; concept development / start ups / operations managementHospitality Consultancy; concept development / start ups / operations managementSome of these statements above make me laugh. If you would follow all 17 of them, anSome of these statements above make me laugh. If you would follow all 17 of them, anemployee is just there to be told what to do at the employers' orders. Not exactly anemployee is just there to be told what to do at the employers' orders. Not exactly anencouraging or motivating environment to work in IMO. Although I agree that some of theencouraging or motivating environment to work in IMO. Although I agree that some of thecomments will not be helpful to your career if you are ambitious, but not everybody in yourcomments will not be helpful to your career if you are ambitious, but not everybody in yourcompany is as ambitious as you are. The fact that they have been hired as a full time employeecompany is as ambitious as you are. The fact that they have been hired as a full time employeemeans that their interest in the company is very different from that of the owner / boss /means that their interest in the company is very different from that of the owner / boss /entrepreneur. The biggest mistake that young entrepreneurs make these days is to expect ofentrepreneur. The biggest mistake that young entrepreneurs make these days is to expect oftheir team that they have to be as committed as they are..... If someone wants to be astheir team that they have to be as committed as they are..... If someone wants to be ascommitted as you, they would set up their own company. Some people have a life outside workcommitted as you, they would set up their own company. Some people have a life outside work(i.e. family) and that is why they decided to work for a boss.(i.e. family) and that is why they decided to work for a boss.Another observation I made reading the article and looking at the pictures and the jobtitles, isAnother observation I made reading the article and looking at the pictures and the jobtitles, isthat every single one of them doesnt seem to be over 35 years old (with some of them probablythat every single one of them doesnt seem to be over 35 years old (with some of them probablymuch younger) and that is probably where the problem lies: inexperience to manage assertivemuch younger) and that is probably where the problem lies: inexperience to manage assertiveemployees and failing to see things from your employees point of view. The fact that some ofemployees and failing to see things from your employees point of view. The fact that some ofthese entrepreneurs actually state "if you dont like it you can leave", is testament to theirthese entrepreneurs actually state "if you dont like it you can leave", is testament to theirimmaturity and inexperience in dealing with a group of people.immaturity and inexperience in dealing with a group of people.So my advice would be as follows: instead of trying the be the tough guy and live by these "17So my advice would be as follows: instead of trying the be the tough guy and live by these "17commandments", it would be much wiser and productive to create an environment whereby thecommandments", it would be much wiser and productive to create an environment whereby theemployee can actually bring up the frustrations of their job so that you can work on building aemployee can actually bring up the frustrations of their job so that you can work on building aproductive team instead of letting people go because they may have hurt your ego.....productive team instead of letting people go because they may have hurt your ego.....LikeLike(619)(619) ReplyReply(38)(38) 6 months ago6 months ago

John FoleyJohn FoleyKeynote Speaker / Founder & CEO @ John Foley Inc.Keynote Speaker / Founder & CEO @ John Foley Inc.Love this list! Great nuggets of wisdom can be distilled out of each of these things. Anybody seeLove this list! Great nuggets of wisdom can be distilled out of each of these things. Anybody seesome that I missed?some that I missed?

1. Do it for a purpose larger than self.1. Do it for a purpose larger than self.2. Be proactive; take initiative on the important tasks2. Be proactive; take initiative on the important tasks3. "Address problems with an answer"3. "Address problems with an answer"5. Change is difficult; be willing to put in the effort at each hump.5. Change is difficult; be willing to put in the effort at each hump.6. Work with a grateful mindset.6. Work with a grateful mindset.7. Make realistic contracts w/ your colleagues7. Make realistic contracts w/ your colleagues8. Don't accept failure before you try.8. Don't accept failure before you try.10. Invest your honest opinions; don't bite your tongue.10. Invest your honest opinions; don't bite your tongue.12. Always believe in the possibility of success.12. Always believe in the possibility of success.15. Direct your efforts toward team & company goals.15. Direct your efforts toward team & company goals.16. Make every day your best day.16. Make every day your best day.



6 of 10 4/5/14, 8:52 PM

LikeLike(652)(652) ReplyReply(45)(45) 6 months ago6 months ago

Joshua RenderJoshua RenderComputer NerdComputer NerdI have problems with Number 3 and number 13.I have problems with Number 3 and number 13.

To number #3: "There's something wrong"To number #3: "There's something wrong"Not everyone is going to be able to solve a problem. What I get from her take on this is ifNot everyone is going to be able to solve a problem. What I get from her take on this is ifsomeone doesn't notice a problem and can't solve it, its better to sit on it and not say anything. Isomeone doesn't notice a problem and can't solve it, its better to sit on it and not say anything. Ithink this is wrong. You may not be able to solve a problem, wouldn't it be better to make thethink this is wrong. You may not be able to solve a problem, wouldn't it be better to make theproblem known and get the right people on the job to solve the problem? I would rather aproblem known and get the right people on the job to solve the problem? I would rather aproblem be known then "Surprise!" a problem someone noticed a month ago has spiraled out ofproblem be known then "Surprise!" a problem someone noticed a month ago has spiraled out ofcontrol.control.

To # 13: "I'm clocked out"To # 13: "I'm clocked out"Are they hourly employees? Are you willing to pay them overtime? usually someone who clocksAre they hourly employees? Are you willing to pay them overtime? usually someone who clocksin our out work by the hour. While it certainly would be good to get free labor, what incentive arein our out work by the hour. While it certainly would be good to get free labor, what incentive areyou giving them to get them to do this free labor? Do you just expect people who are paid byyou giving them to get them to do this free labor? Do you just expect people who are paid bythe hour to just work for you all the time no matter what?the hour to just work for you all the time no matter what?I don't know why someone who is salary would say this, I have only heard mistreated hourlyI don't know why someone who is salary would say this, I have only heard mistreated hourlyemployees say this to bosses they don't like. They aren't your slaves, you pay them to work byemployees say this to bosses they don't like. They aren't your slaves, you pay them to work bythe hour you should honor your companies obligations and commitments - even to hourlythe hour you should honor your companies obligations and commitments - even to hourlyemployees. You are the boss, grabbing the closest person to you to do a job is called laziness.employees. You are the boss, grabbing the closest person to you to do a job is called laziness.As a boss it is your job to get the right people on the job - not the nearest one to you who mightAs a boss it is your job to get the right people on the job - not the nearest one to you who mightbe trying to eat lunch on an unpaid lunch break. Bosses like that are the type no one wants tobe trying to eat lunch on an unpaid lunch break. Bosses like that are the type no one wants towork for.work for.LikeLike(252)(252) ReplyReply(23)(23) 6 months ago6 months ago

David HersmanDavid HersmanVisual Information SpecialistVisual Information SpecialistA few of these young bosses sound very arrogant. Like the one who doesn't want to be toldA few of these young bosses sound very arrogant. Like the one who doesn't want to be toldthere is something wrong? How can you fix a problem if you don't want to know it exists. Forthere is something wrong? How can you fix a problem if you don't want to know it exists. Foryou to be an effective manager, information (even negative information) has to flow to you. Ifyou to be an effective manager, information (even negative information) has to flow to you. Ifyour subordinates are fixing problems and you are out of the loop, then you are not necessary.your subordinates are fixing problems and you are out of the loop, then you are not necessary.#9 - You only want employees who agree with you 100%? Guess what - they don't exist. If they#9 - You only want employees who agree with you 100%? Guess what - they don't exist. If theyalways appear to agree, you are being lied to. They are going along for the sake of gettingalways appear to agree, you are being lied to. They are going along for the sake of gettingalong. You are actively stifling the innovation that a start-up needs to survive. And #2, no one isalong. You are actively stifling the innovation that a start-up needs to survive. And #2, no one isa mind-reader. If something needs to be done, then as the boss, it is your job to explicitly statea mind-reader. If something needs to be done, then as the boss, it is your job to explicitly stategoals and who is responsible. You are guilty of they very thing you are accusing yourgoals and who is responsible. You are guilty of they very thing you are accusing youremployees of - assuming that someone else is taking care of it. You want to be the boss? - theemployees of - assuming that someone else is taking care of it. You want to be the boss? - thebuck stops with you.buck stops with you.LikeLike(190)(190) ReplyReply(13)(13) 6 months ago6 months ago

Philip LewisPhilip LewisDelivery Manager at Royal Bank of ScotlandDelivery Manager at Royal Bank of ScotlandThe thing that always annoys me is "that's the way we've always done it".The thing that always annoys me is "that's the way we've always done it".LikeLike(180)(180) ReplyReply(20)(20) 6 months ago6 months ago

Pramod Kumar SrivastavaPramod Kumar SrivastavaConsultant-CEO, Corporate Performance Improvement Consultant, Writer, Speaker &Consultant-CEO, Corporate Performance Improvement Consultant, Writer, Speaker &Global CitizenGlobal CitizenList is subjective, but one thing is for sure, Never Ever discuss about your personal life withList is subjective, but one thing is for sure, Never Ever discuss about your personal life withBoss, say, ill health, divorce, parents problem, spouse problem, child education, etc. etc.You areBoss, say, ill health, divorce, parents problem, spouse problem, child education, etc. etc.You aregiving strings in his hand, and making yourself highly vulnerable. He will always use it againstgiving strings in his hand, and making yourself highly vulnerable. He will always use it againstyou.Work like a robot in the company, and just leave.you.Work like a robot in the company, and just leave.LikeLike(60)(60) ReplyReply(33)(33) 6 months ago6 months ago

Adam ButlerAdam ButlerDigital Marketing Analyst at NetXtraDigital Marketing Analyst at NetXtra1) Derek Capo1) Derek Capo



7 of 10 4/5/14, 8:52 PM

them go very quickly."them go very quickly."

- I can't believe what I'm reading here... I think you need to think long and hard about your- I can't believe what I'm reading here... I think you need to think long and hard about yourduties as an employer if you're going to let people go because of something you hear throughduties as an employer if you're going to let people go because of something you hear throughthe grapevine. Not to mention that the thing you're hearing through the grapevine is thatthe grapevine. Not to mention that the thing you're hearing through the grapevine is thatemployee X's main motivation for coming to work is remuneration for their labour.employee X's main motivation for coming to work is remuneration for their labour.

UnbelievableUnbelievableLikeLike(105)(105) ReplyReply(8)(8) 6 months ago6 months ago

David HortonDavid HortonCompany Care Account Manager at Eastside Medical CenterCompany Care Account Manager at Eastside Medical Center#3 - There's something wrong: I used to believe this as well. I walked around saying "don't give#3 - There's something wrong: I used to believe this as well. I walked around saying "don't giveme problems give me solutions". I thought that I was encouraging my staff to think ahead andme problems give me solutions". I thought that I was encouraging my staff to think ahead andgiving them autonomy. Then I had an issue come up that almost ended my carrer and one ofgiving them autonomy. Then I had an issue come up that almost ended my carrer and one ofmy staff members. When I sat and talked with that employee and asked why the problem wasmy staff members. When I sat and talked with that employee and asked why the problem wasnot brought to my attention earlier, guess what answer I got? "I was trying to find a solution".not brought to my attention earlier, guess what answer I got? "I was trying to find a solution".Now, I encourage staff to bring the problem as soon as it is identified. Then I ask for solutionsNow, I encourage staff to bring the problem as soon as it is identified. Then I ask for solutionsand encourage them to find the answer, often because they are closer to the problem.and encourage them to find the answer, often because they are closer to the problem.Sometimes they do not have all the information to create a solution. Sometimes the problemSometimes they do not have all the information to create a solution. Sometimes the problemneeds immediate action.needs immediate action.LikeLike(124)(124) ReplyReply(14)(14) 6 months ago6 months ago

Kim Chalk (Bradford)Kim Chalk (Bradford)I have lost count of the number of times someone has said to me, as an HR Manager, "that'sI have lost count of the number of times someone has said to me, as an HR Manager, "that'snot my job"... I have perfected the look, the pause, the pointed response, but it still makes menot my job"... I have perfected the look, the pause, the pointed response, but it still makes meshake my head in disbelief, every time!shake my head in disbelief, every time!LikeLike(22)(22) ReplyReply(13)(13) 6 months ago6 months ago

David HorsewoodDavid HorsewoodOwner, Fire by Light LLCOwner, Fire by Light LLC"You're a jerk." I believe telling the truth is the right thing to do. Saying, "You're a jerk," to a jerky"You're a jerk." I believe telling the truth is the right thing to do. Saying, "You're a jerk," to a jerkyboss is probably not going to make things better. One of the things that gets us into trouble isboss is probably not going to make things better. One of the things that gets us into trouble isthinking there is such a thing as constructive criticism. All criticism is destructive. No, I am notthinking there is such a thing as constructive criticism. All criticism is destructive. No, I am notsaying we can't ever criticize. The notion of "constructive criticism" just has us do it too much,saying we can't ever criticize. The notion of "constructive criticism" just has us do it too much,often making things worse. There are ways of constructively and truthfully discussing things thatoften making things worse. There are ways of constructively and truthfully discussing things thatdon't involve criticism. One of the basic tenants of that is focusing on the future. When criticizingdon't involve criticism. One of the basic tenants of that is focusing on the future. When criticizingwe are discussing the past, something nothing can be done about. Focus on the future.we are discussing the past, something nothing can be done about. Focus on the future.LikeLike(44)(44) ReplyReply(10)(10) 6 months ago6 months ago

Michael SemusMichael SemusMBA Student at University of BrightonMBA Student at University of BrightonI am a firm believer in treating fellow workers like human beings. This means they have flawsI am a firm believer in treating fellow workers like human beings. This means they have flawsand will require differing approaches based on their personality types and there will be timesand will require differing approaches based on their personality types and there will be timeswhen issues out of the companies control can negatively affect their performance.when issues out of the companies control can negatively affect their performance.

However, if you stand by a worker when they are having personal problems, treat them withHowever, if you stand by a worker when they are having personal problems, treat them withrespect and pay them for their time they will repay the company so much more than this costsrespect and pay them for their time they will repay the company so much more than this coststhat the value cannot even be quantified.that the value cannot even be quantified.

This does not mean you allow people to walk all over you and their contract, but being flexibleThis does not mean you allow people to walk all over you and their contract, but being flexiblewhen it's hard for the company is only reasonable when you expect the workers to give thewhen it's hard for the company is only reasonable when you expect the workers to give thesame back.same back.

Respect is earned, this goes for both employer and employee.Respect is earned, this goes for both employer and employee.LikeLike(74)(74) ReplyReply(4)(4) 6 months ago6 months ago

KYLE BROWNKYLE BROWNRelationship-Focused Recruiter, Breaking Down the Barriers between Top Talent &Relationship-Focused Recruiter, Breaking Down the Barriers between Top Talent &Growing CompaniesGrowing Companies



8 of 10 4/5/14, 8:52 PM

responses used for this article are traditional emotional responses to employee behavior. I amresponses used for this article are traditional emotional responses to employee behavior. I amguilty of the same frustrations as those quoted. However, I firmly believe that a true leader hasguilty of the same frustrations as those quoted. However, I firmly believe that a true leader hasthe ability set aside that initial emotional response in order to better understand the root of thethe ability set aside that initial emotional response in order to better understand the root of theissue. Comments like “I’m just here for the money” and “I agree to disagree” are indicators ofissue. Comments like “I’m just here for the money” and “I agree to disagree” are indicators ofbigger issues either with that individual employee or the organization as a whole. I have nobigger issues either with that individual employee or the organization as a whole. I have noknowledge of the circumstances surrounding the comments listed in the article. That said belowknowledge of the circumstances surrounding the comments listed in the article. That said beloware a few examples (some from my own experience) of what employees may really mean whenare a few examples (some from my own experience) of what employees may really mean whenthey say things like “I could be doing other things.”they say things like “I could be doing other things.”

1. “I am just here for the money.” - I don’t feel like what I do matters here, I’m not needed and1. “I am just here for the money.” - I don’t feel like what I do matters here, I’m not needed andI’m not growing.I’m not growing.

2. “You never told me to do it” - I’m afraid to step up and take initiative, Jim tried that and you2. “You never told me to do it” - I’m afraid to step up and take initiative, Jim tried that and youcame down on him.came down on him.

3. “There is something wrong” - Hey I need help, something isn’t right and I could use your3. “There is something wrong” - Hey I need help, something isn’t right and I could use yourleadership and expertise to help fix it.leadership and expertise to help fix it.

4. “I want to do what’s easiest” - I’ve got a lot going on at home and I can’t take the stress there4. “I want to do what’s easiest” - I’ve got a lot going on at home and I can’t take the stress thereand here, can I just do some mindless work?and here, can I just do some mindless work?

5. “That takes up too much time” - We’ve got to be more efficient, can you help me be a better5. “That takes up too much time” - We’ve got to be more efficient, can you help me be a bettertime manager?time manager?

6. “I could be doing other things” - Why don’t you value what I do here? Can I get some positive6. “I could be doing other things” - Why don’t you value what I do here? Can I get some positivefeedback, once?feedback, once?

7. “I promise to do that” - I’ll give everything I have to accomplish what you’ve asked, but I may7. “I promise to do that” - I’ll give everything I have to accomplish what you’ve asked, but I mayneed you to check in on me halfway through.need you to check in on me halfway through.

8. “It’s too difficult” - I don’t have the skills or tools necessary to accomplish the task, or at least I8. “It’s too difficult” - I don’t have the skills or tools necessary to accomplish the task, or at least Idon’t think I do. Can you give me some optimism and pump me up instead of just demandingdon’t think I do. Can you give me some optimism and pump me up instead of just demandingresults?results?

9. “I agree to disagree” - Look, I care enough about this place, and you to speak up when I think9. “I agree to disagree” - Look, I care enough about this place, and you to speak up when I thinkyou’re wrong, but when you continue to shoot down my ideas and cut me off this is what you’llyou’re wrong, but when you continue to shoot down my ideas and cut me off this is what you’llget from me.get from me.

10. “I don’t have an opinion” - I thought what I shared last week was worth sharing, but all I got10. “I don’t have an opinion” - I thought what I shared last week was worth sharing, but all I gotwere blank stares in the meeting and then everyone just moved on. Give me a reason towere blank stares in the meeting and then everyone just moved on. Give me a reason tobelieve my ideas are worth sharing.believe my ideas are worth sharing.

11. “I can’t” - I’m not making excuses, but I won’t lie to you and say I’m capable of what I’m not.11. “I can’t” - I’m not making excuses, but I won’t lie to you and say I’m capable of what I’m not.If you’d take a moment to listen and quit dismissing my ‘excuses’ so quickly you’d understandIf you’d take a moment to listen and quit dismissing my ‘excuses’ so quickly you’d understandwhat I’m really getting at.what I’m really getting at.

12. “I’m not optimistic” - I’m a realist and frankly it’s been a rough few months, both here and at12. “I’m not optimistic” - I’m a realist and frankly it’s been a rough few months, both here and athome, but if you’d ask, you’d know that already.home, but if you’d ask, you’d know that already.

13. “I’m clocked out” - You bill our clients for our time, so why wouldn’t I bill you? I put in extra13. “I’m clocked out” - You bill our clients for our time, so why wouldn’t I bill you? I put in extrahours last week and you didn’t say a word and now you’re mad because I want compensatedhours last week and you didn’t say a word and now you’re mad because I want compensatedfor the time I’m putting in tonight?for the time I’m putting in tonight?

14. “That’s not my responsibility” - There isn’t any collaboration here, I don’t feel like I’m a14. “That’s not my responsibility” - There isn’t any collaboration here, I don’t feel like I’m amember of the team.member of the team.

15. “That’s not my job” - Really? I’m feeling taken advantage of. I came here because you told15. “That’s not my job” - Really? I’m feeling taken advantage of. I came here because you toldme I would be doing ‘X’ and that’s what I love to do, and I spend half my time doing otherme I would be doing ‘X’ and that’s what I love to do, and I spend half my time doing otherthings.things.

16. “I don’t like working for other people” - I don’t like working for you, you micromanage16. “I don’t like working for other people” - I don’t like working for you, you micromanageeverything I do. You brought me on because of my expertise; give me a chance to be thateverything I do. You brought me on because of my expertise; give me a chance to be thatexpert without you looking over my shoulder all the time.expert without you looking over my shoulder all the time.

17. “I’m not working hard” - This is too easy, challenge me please!17. “I’m not working hard” - This is too easy, challenge me please!LikeLike(76)(76) ReplyReply(8)(8) 6 months ago6 months ago

Neil JonesNeil JonesRegional Security Advisor at MicrosoftRegional Security Advisor at Microsoft



9 of 10 4/5/14, 8:52 PM

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desperate, career-on-the-line sounding "Why did no-one tell me we had this major problem?"desperate, career-on-the-line sounding "Why did no-one tell me we had this major problem?"LikeLike(65)(65) ReplyReply(8)(8) 6 months ago6 months ago

Al CostaAl CostaCEO Alkol BioenergyCEO Alkol BioenergyAnd yet one more article which only looks at one side of the coin: the employee. I wtill long toAnd yet one more article which only looks at one side of the coin: the employee. I wtill long tosee one which actually looks at how crappy bosses, low salaries, unrealized expectations, andsee one which actually looks at how crappy bosses, low salaries, unrealized expectations, andsuch are actually the source of the phrases depicted above.such are actually the source of the phrases depicted above.LikeLike(60)(60) ReplyReply(4)(4) 6 months ago6 months ago

James R. MoserJames R. MoserOffice Administrator at UCSF Office of Career and Professional DevelopmentOffice Administrator at UCSF Office of Career and Professional DevelopmentThis is full of anti-labor, workaholic sentiments that simply do not (and frankly should not) applyThis is full of anti-labor, workaholic sentiments that simply do not (and frankly should not) applyto most working Americans.to most working Americans.LikeLike(46)(46) ReplyReply(6)(6) 6 months ago6 months ago

John HenryJohn HenryElevating business with dataElevating business with dataIf your employees are saying some of these things, then maybe the 'problem' lies much closerIf your employees are saying some of these things, then maybe the 'problem' lies much closerto home. Even if your delegate ego finds it hard to hearto home. Even if your delegate ego finds it hard to hearLikeLike(37)(37) ReplyReply(3)(3) 6 months ago6 months ago

LinkedIn MemberLinkedIn MemberOther things you should never say to your boss:Other things you should never say to your boss:

“Are you going to eat the rest of that?”“Are you going to eat the rest of that?”

“If the cops show up, I’m not here.”“If the cops show up, I’m not here.”

“When you interviewed me for this job, I thought you were a lot jerkier.”“When you interviewed me for this job, I thought you were a lot jerkier.”

“Does the seat of your chair stick to bare skin? Mine does.”“Does the seat of your chair stick to bare skin? Mine does.”

“Does this look infected to you?”“Does this look infected to you?”LikeLike(52)(52) ReplyReply(3)(3) 6 months ago6 months ago

Naqib KhanNaqib KhanDisagree with 5 and 12. Bosses and employees do tell minute lies to each other but onlyDisagree with 5 and 12. Bosses and employees do tell minute lies to each other but onlysometimes and only when necessary. This article is clearly biased towards bosses, I want thesometimes and only when necessary. This article is clearly biased towards bosses, I want thetruth, not people telling me what I want to hear all the time.truth, not people telling me what I want to hear all the time.LikeLike(34)(34) ReplyReply(2)(2) 6 months ago6 months ago

Andrea GavazzoniAndrea GavazzoniI'd rename this post "things you certainly think but you'd better keep to yourself". To negate no.1I'd rename this post "things you certainly think but you'd better keep to yourself". To negate no.1is the typical delusional approach of managers and HR's that want to believe that people workis the typical delusional approach of managers and HR's that want to believe that people workat fast foods and supermarkets for the corporate culture and the challenges of the job. Wake up!at fast foods and supermarkets for the corporate culture and the challenges of the job. Wake up!LikeLike(32)(32) ReplyReply 6 months ago6 months ago

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17 Things You Should Never Say to Your Boss