A pleasant and productive work environment is a great place, but certain phrases can get in the way of creating good working relationships! Here are 21 of those phrases that can annoy your co-workers.
“Let’s circle back on that.”
Revisiting topics repeatedly can feel like a waste of time, especially if no new information is provided. According to Medium, it’s an annoying term that’s often overused. This phrase can create a sense of déjà vu, making it seem like the discussion is going in circles – horrible!
“Per my last email…”
This phrase always comes across as passive-aggressive, implying that the recipient didn’t read or understand the previous message. A gentle reminder or a brief summary of the past email ensures clarity without causing irritation. A simple “As mentioned earlier” or “Just to reiterate” can convey the same message in a friendlier tone.
“Can you put a pin in that?”
Although meant to pause a conversation, “Can you put a pin in that?” can sound dismissive. Colleagues might feel their ideas are being sidelined. Instead, suggest a follow-up discussion or allocate a specific time to revisit the topic, showing that their input is valued. For example, “Let’s revisit this tomorrow” is much more considerate.
“Let’s table that for now.”
Here’s another way to table a discussion that can seem like an indefinite postponement. Colleagues may wonder if the topic will ever be addressed again. Offering a clear timeline for when the topic will be revisited can alleviate these concerns. To be more precise, try saying, “We’ll discuss this in our next meeting.”
“At the end of the day…”
Often used to summarize a point, this phrase can feel cliché and overused. It can also seem like the speaker is downplaying other perspectives. Phrasing your summary differently can keep the conversation fresh and engaging. Saying “Ultimately” or “The main takeaway is” can be more effective and less irritating.
“Touch base.”
While commonly used, saying “touch base” can feel vague and non-committal. It’s more effective to be specific about when and how you will follow up. Clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures everyone is on the same page. A good example would be “Let’s meet tomorrow to discuss,” as this is much clearer and more actionable.
“It is what it is.”
This phrase can come off as defeatist and dismissive, implying that nothing can be done about the situation. Instead, focusing on possible solutions or next steps shows a proactive attitude and can foster a more positive work environment. “Here’s what we can do” might help you keep the momentum positive.
“Think outside the box.”
Encouraging creativity is important, but “think outside the box” is often seen as a tired cliché. Instead, providing specific examples of innovative thinking can inspire colleagues more effectively. Fresh and clear language can better motivate creative problem-solving. For instance, saying, “Let’s try a new approach,” can spark more interest.
“Just a friendly reminder…”
This can seem condescending, especially if used repeatedly. It’s more respectful to assume that colleagues have good intentions and might have simply overlooked something. A straightforward and polite reminder without the extra fluff can be more appreciated. “Don’t forget” is usually sufficient and less patronizing.
“Pick your brain.”
While the intention is to seek advice, to ‘pick someone’s brain’ is a little intrusive. People may feel like they are being asked to share their ideas without proper context or compensation. Asking specific questions or scheduling a meeting can make the request feel more respectful. Try “Can I get your thoughts on this?” instead.
“Let’s get our ducks in a row.”
Although intended to convey organization, this phrase can seem unnecessarily whimsical. Clear, direct language about the need for preparation or planning is typically more professional and better received in a workplace setting. Saying, “We need to prepare for this,” is more straightforward.
“Move the needle.”
Common in corporate jargon, this phrase can be vague and overused. Colleagues may find it more helpful if you specify what actions will lead to measurable progress. Clear, actionable language can inspire more focused efforts. For example, “Let’s make significant progress on this” is more motivating.
“Low-hanging fruit.”
Often used to describe easy tasks, this phrase can trivialize important work. Describing tasks with specific details about their importance and impact can help colleagues understand and appreciate the work involved without feeling patronized. Instead, say, “Let’s start with the easiest tasks” to convey the same message without the negative connotation.
“Going forward…”
This phrase, though meant to indicate future actions, can feel redundant. Instead, simply stating the intended actions can be more concise and clear. Clear and direct language ensures better understanding and follow-through. “From now on” or “In the future” can be effective alternatives.
“It’s on my radar.”
While intended to reassure, saying “it’s on my radar” can actually seem non-committal and vague. Providing specific timelines or updates shows more accountability and helps build trust among colleagues. Clear commitments can lead to better collaboration and follow-up. “I’ll address this by the end of the day” is more precise.
“Synergy.”
This is a slightly cringey word that seems pretty redundant. Your colleagues will appreciate more concrete descriptions of how different elements will work together. Clear and specific language about collaboration and integration can be more motivating. For instance, “Let’s collaborate” is much clearer.
“Run it up the flagpole.”
It’s kind of hard to understand what this particular saying even means! We recommend telling your co-workers that you will seek approval or discuss with higher-ups. Direct and modern language tends to be more effective in conveying the need for further discussion or decision-making.
“Bite the bullet.”
If you’re trying to suggest that someone needs to endure something unpleasant, it could be quite demoralizing. Try offering support and acknowledging challenges while focusing on solutions as this will create a more positive and encouraging atmosphere. It’s the way forward!
“Play devil’s advocate.”
While intended to spark discussion, being the devil’s advocate is probably just going to annoy people. Instead, framing your alternative perspective as a question or a different angle is the better way to go about things. A good example would be to say, “How about we consider another perspective?”
“Take it offline.”
To take something offline is meant to suggest moving the conversation to another setting, but really, the phrase can sound like a brush-off. It’s much better to suggest a specific time and place for further discussion as that will show respect for the topic and the people involved.
“Ping me.”
Pinging someone is quite a common part of tech jargon, but it’s a little informal and unclear. We prefer to say “message me” or “send me a note” as it’s often clearer and more universally understood. Clear communication ensures that everyone knows how to follow up appropriately.
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