Want a good increment? Here's what to say to your boss - and what to skip

Friends with the boss? Hanging out after work quite frequently? Going for movies and mid-week drinks? Bonding with the boss' family as well?

If you have ticked two of the above, then continue reading. In this mid-appraisal season, here are a few things that you should NEVER, ever, say to your boss, no matter how close you think you are.

And before we list some of the phrases to avoid, remember the cardinal rule: Think before you speak, always (pause, think, frame it in your head, and then, speak).

'NO' is not the right word



"I don't know."
"I can't' do it."
"No, it's not possible."
"That's not a part of my job."

Have you been using these phrases in your conversations? Well, sorry to break it to you but such language has not been helping you much. Stressing on negative sentences gives your manager the impression that you are not trying hard enough.

Tip: Try turning your sentences into affirmative. For example, if you are unable to take up a responsibility assigned to you, reply with a "It would be a challenge, today. Would you prefer me working on the presentation today, instead?"

Don't love your colleagues? Fine, don't whine - and not to your boss!



Teamwork pays. No organisation can work with a single employee. But if you are the whiny kind who indulges in gossip and talking behind others' backs, then God help you! Remember too much of cribbing about your co-workers makes you look like a difficult person. Also, bosses have zero tolerance for those who cannot admit to their mistakes and wait to pass the blame.

Tip: Try and avoid sentences like, "I am sorry, but…", "It wasn't my fault", "I can't work with him/her", "Why should I do his/her work?".

Running late? Don't give minute-by-minute updates



It is courteous to inform your boss if you are running late on certain days. However, make sure that you don't make it a habit. And, if you are running late, refrain from sending minute-by-minute updates of your delayed status. Traffic is a drag, but bothering your boss with repeated messages can be annoying. Give an expected timeline by when you are likely to surface at work.

Tip: Try and give a precise reason for your delay when you call. And if calling isn't an option, try leaving a detailed message.

Hungover or bored? Don't tell the boss



It is good to be friendly with your boss, but never spill the beans. S/he doesn't need to know about your wild night out, or your late-night soccer or 'Narcos' bingeing. Your personal time-management is not your manager's concern. If you are sleep-deprived before an important meeting, and remain distracted, don't expect any sympathy. Even if you have a friendly relationship, s/he's just as likely to get irritated. Being professional will pay off when it's time to have that promotion talk.

Tip: Sometimes keeping the stories to yourself is the best deal.

Threatening your boss: Not a good idea



Watch the tone that you take. Seriously. So, if you're having a bad day, don't get all worked up and threaten to quit. Remember that in the corporate universe, no-one is indispensable.

Tip: Be composed when you approach your manager with what is bothering you. Seek inputs for improvement so that your boss knows you are trying.

Don't mix your personal life with your worklife. Just don't.



If you are going through a break-up or facing problems with your partner, introspect. Don't let your personal woes affect your work as it makes you look unprofessional and not being able to strike work-life balance.

Tip: Ask your boss for a break. Modern-day bosses appreciate that. Take some time off to clear the head.

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