What not to say at the first meeting with a colleague or client: 21 phrases

Whether you are acquainted with a novice colleague, or just talking with a client in a relaxed atmosphere over a cup of coffee, your words make an indelible impression on the interlocutors. Even if the phrase has broken off your lips unconsciously, it can greatly damage your reputation and spoil the first impression. Before you are phrases that you should not speak if you are to become acquainted in a professional environment.

"I hate this company, and my boss is a clown"

Nothing so does not spoil the first impression, as a fair share of the negative. Even if you are trying to lay out the truth to another person, revealing all the inside out of your firm, know that there are certain limits of decency, for which you are not allowed to pass when meeting you. The social and business environment obliges you to demonstrate your best qualities. Leave complaints for people with whom you have a trusting relationship.

"How much do you earn?"

Questions about the level of income are considered very personal, so they are inappropriate when meeting. The question of earnings is rude and tactless, and if you are very interested in comparing wages, this can be done through private channels or specialized sites.

"I'm sorry I disturbed you"

If you really did not want to pester the newcomer with questions, why did you do it? For the introductory phrase it is much more appropriate to use another template: "Do you have a free minute?"

"What do you think about our president?"

By the general rule of etiquette at the first meeting do not talk about politics. Even if you do not agree with the current regime, entrust the agitation to specially trained people.

"Do you believe in God?"

There is one more obvious taboo before you. However, some people at the acquaintance manage to go so far as to be interested in interlocutors with religious beliefs.

"I belong to sexual minorities"

Your orientation only affects you and your partner. Colleagues and clients do not need to clog the brain with information that does not reflect your professional qualities and achievements.

"When will you have a baby?"

If you see a pregnant colleague, do not ask her questions about the timing of childbirth. In addition, it may be that her rounded stomach is a sign of a rapidly developing disease. You will put the companion in an awkward position.

"It's impossible"

When you are discussing a problem, try to avoid categorical statements. Be tactful and offer alternative solutions.

"You heard…?"

You can forget about good reputation in the business environment, if your acquaintance is accompanied by the spread of gossip and rumors. Know that the gossip himself looks even worse in the eyes of others than the person he is talking about. Guess the first time, who will be discussed when your new colleague starts a conversation with the victim of your intrigues?

"I like your dress"

In a business environment, it is not customary to comment on a person's appearance or his manner of dressing. Observe subordination in the workplace.

"I divorce"

If you are experiencing difficulties in your personal life, do not dare to share your misfortune with a new colleague. Any mention of personal adversity is irrelevant in a professional environment.

"I think…"

When you take a pause for reflection, it means that you are not sure of the firmness of your position. Who wants to deal with such a person?

"I'm very tired"

Labor ethics do not accept excuses. First, finish the job, and you'll have time to rest on the weekend.

"I imagined you differently"

Do not start a conversation with disappointment or bewilderment. Your client does not need to know that you have pinned his expectations on him.

"You are much better in life"

Also, do not hint to the client or colleague that they initially thought bad about him. Most likely, this observation will make him feel uncomfortable.

"How old are you?"

To be interested in the age of the interlocutor is silly and inappropriate, especially if it is a question of the beautiful lady.

"Fair"

A deliberate emphasis on your honesty can play a cruel joke on you. Others will treat you with disbelief, waiting for a dirty trick.

"You probably heard about me not very pleasant things ... I assure you that this is not true"

Do not pay attention to the rumors spread around you by envious colleagues. In addition, if you meet with a newcomer and begin to focus on your own person, he will get the impression that you think you are the most important person in the office.

"Can you do me a favor?"

Another 10 minutes ago you did not know this person, but you dare ask him for a favor. What does it mean?

"I ... I ... I ..."

Avoid self-centered words in any conversation, even if it is informal friendly. Remember that I am the last letter in the alphabet. People do not like when someone in a conversation with them seeks to "pull the blanket over themselves," especially when it comes to the very first meeting. Instead, resort to the practice of active listening or show that you are not indifferent to the problems that have piled up on your industry.

"Oh my God, how I like it!"

Perhaps you want to show all your enthusiasm and positive. However, such irrepressible zeal leads to the opposite effect. What is the secret of success for new colleagues and clients? Just stay yourself.