Lisa O
Your workplace might feel casual, but what you say to your co-workers can impact your relationships, reputation, and even career progression. Some comments may seem harmless but can create tension, fuel office gossip, or make you look unprofessional. Here are 15 things you should never say to your co-workers—unless you want to make things awkward or worse.
“That’s not my job.”
Even if a task isn’t technically in your job description, flat-out refusing to help can make you look uncooperative and dismissive. While it’s fair to set boundaries, how you phrase it matters. Instead of shutting down the request, try saying, “I’d love to help, but I’m currently swamped with my own deadlines. Maybe we can find another solution together?”
“I don’t get paid enough to do this.”
Complaining about salary to your co-workers doesn’t solve anything and can make you look negative. While feeling undervalued is valid, airing your frustration in the office can backfire—you never know who’s listening, and it can make you seem ungrateful or difficult. If you’re unhappy with your pay, the best way to address it is by discussing it with your manager, not venting to colleagues who can’t change it.
“That’s not how we used to do it.”
Change is inevitable in the workplace, and constantly bringing up “the way things used to be” can make you seem resistant to progress. While past methods may have worked, dwelling on them can hold the team back. Instead of dismissing a new approach, try saying, “I’d love to understand how this new method will improve our workflow. Can you walk me through the reasoning behind the change?”
“You look tired.”
Even if you mean well, commenting on a co-worker’s appearance—especially in a way that implies they look unwell—can make them feel self-conscious. Telling someone they look tired could make them wonder if they appear unprofessional, sick, or overworked. A better approach is to offer support instead: “You’ve been working really hard lately—let me know if you need any help!”
“Can you cover for me? I’ll owe you one.”
Occasionally, asking a co-worker for help isn’t a problem, but making it a habit or asking them to cover for something questionable (like being late or missing a deadline) puts them in an awkward position. If they say no, they feel guilty, and if they say yes, they’re taking on extra work for you. Instead, handle your responsibilities professionally, and if you need help, ask in a way that doesn’t pressure them.
“This place would fall apart without me.”
Even if you are a top performer, acting like you’re the only competent person in the office can come across as arrogant. No one enjoys working with someone who thinks they are the most important person in the room. A better approach is to recognize your contributions while also appreciating those of your colleagues: “I take a lot of pride in my work, and I’m lucky to be part of a strong team that makes everything run smoothly.”
“I heard [Name] is getting fired.”
Gossiping about layoffs, firings, or other office drama can create panic, damage trust, and even put your own reputation at risk. Even if you think you have inside knowledge, spreading rumors can make you look unprofessional and unreliable. If someone asks about workplace rumors, the best response is: “I try not to speculate on things like that—if there are any updates, I’m sure we’ll hear about them officially.”
“Why did they promote [Name] instead of me?”
Expressing disappointment about not getting a promotion is understandable, but questioning someone else’s success can come off as bitter or unprofessional. Instead of venting to colleagues, reflect on what you can improve and have a direct conversation with your manager: “I’d love to know what skills I should focus on to be considered for future promotions.”
“I hate this job.”
Everyone has bad days, but constantly voicing your dissatisfaction can bring down morale and make you a target for management. Complaining too much can also create a negative work environment and might even make leadership see you as someone who doesn’t belong long-term. If you’re truly unhappy, consider discussing your concerns with HR or quietly looking for new opportunities rather than spreading negativity in the office.
“That’s not fair.”
Workplaces aren’t always fair, but complaining without offering a solution makes you look unprofessional. Instead of focusing on fairness, focus on advocating for yourself in a productive way. Instead of saying, “That’s not fair,” try, “I’d like to better understand how this decision was made and if there’s anything I can do differently moving forward.”
“You’re doing that wrong.”
No one likes to feel incompetent, and bluntly telling a co-worker they’re wrong can create unnecessary tension. If you notice a mistake, correct them with kindness and professionalism. Instead of saying, “You’re doing that wrong, “try, “I’ve found that this method works really well—want me to show you?” This approach offers help without making them feel embarrassed.
“Are you pregnant?”
Even if you think it’s obvious, never assume someone is pregnant. If they haven’t announced it, there’s a reason. Asking this question can lead to awkwardness, embarrassment, or even unintended offense in cases where someone is struggling with health issues or pregnancy loss. If they want to share, they will—on their own terms.
“Did you hear what [Name] did this weekend?”
Office gossip might seem harmless, but it can backfire quickly. What seems like a fun chat about someone’s personal life can create drama, tension, or even workplace hostility. Keeping workplace conversations positive and professional helps maintain a better environment for everyone.
“That’s not my problem.”
While you’re not expected to take on every issue, dismissing a co-worker’s concern outright can make you seem unsupportive or unhelpful. Instead, try: “I don’t handle that personally, but maybe [Name] can help, or we can find the right person to address it.” This way, you’re not taking responsibility for something that isn’t yours, but you’re also not leaving your colleague stranded.
“It must be nice to have that schedule.”
Making comments about someone else’s work schedule—especially if they work remotely or have flexible hours—can sound bitter or passive-aggressive. Instead of questioning their schedule, focus on your own workload. If you feel your workload is unfair, discuss it with your manager instead of making side comments to your co-workers.
