Building an open, and effective communication with your boss should be encouraged, it is also important to keep conversations on a professional level. Losing control whilst speaking and saying things that can cost an employee to lose his/her job should be avoided. While healthy topics should be encouraged, there are certain topics that are generally inappropriate or unprofessional to discuss in the workplace, especially with your boss. Here are some examples:
1. Gossip about your colleagues
Gossip often involves sharing personal information about others without their consent, which infringes upon their privacy. It is unprofessional, immature and untrustworthy. One of the virtues employers look for is honesty. Gossiping about your colleagues portrays you in a bad light as someone who can never be trusted. No matter how juicy the story about your colleague might be, you will be losing your boss’s respect because he or she won’t trust you with any information seeing how easy it was for you to divulge peoples private matters they trusted you with. Always keep the private information of your colleagues to yourself and learn to maintain a professional image by keeping conversations with your boss business-related and not personal.
2. Plans to Leave the Job
If you’re planning on quitting or are actively job searching, it’s generally not a good idea to share this with your boss until you’re ready to formally announce it and give in your notice. No matter how dissatisfied you are with your current job, never make known your intentions of leaving the company unless the company is closing down soon and you have the blessing of the management to be on the lookout. Every boss finds it hard to work with someone who is always on the look out for another job. Keeping your intentions of leaving the company to yourself will do more good.
3. Political and Religious Opinions
Conversations about a different political or religious belief are highly sensitive topics and can lead to contentious conversations, disagreements, and tension. Unless your work directly involves these topics, it’s better to steer clear of them.
4. Negative Things About Past Employers
Always be neutral whenever you are discussing about your past employer with your current Boss. You don’t want to be seen as a negative person who is highly critical of former employers, colleagues or bosses and is shinning a negative light. The general assumption is if you are badmouthing your previous employers someday you will badmouth your current employers and your Boss too.
5. Details of Your Boss’s Personal Life They Haven’t Shared With You
If your boss is yet to open up about their family life, their past or their plans for the weekend or their day off, don’t be the first to take the conversation in a personal direction. “You may know about your boss’s spouse, children or who they are currently dating, but if they do not want to talk about their private life that is perfectly fine”. If they are secretive and seem to shut down about personal issues, take the cue and don’t overstep your boundary.
6. Salary Comparison
Discussing what you think your peers earn in comparison to you can come off as unprofessional. If you believe you’re underpaid, it’s better to bring up the subject in the context of your own performance and industry standards.
7. Criticism of Coworkers
Criticizing your coworkers to your boss can make you look unprofessional and may lead to a toxic work environment. If you have serious issues with a coworker, it’s better to approach the matter professionally, perhaps involving human resources if necessary.
8. Inappropriate Jokes or Comments
Any jokes or comments that are disrespectful, discriminatory, or sexually explicit are strictly off-limits. They can lead to serious consequences, including potential legal action against you. Always know your limits when speaking and avoid sensitive jokes or comments.
9. Complaining About Your Job
Constantly complaining about your job or your duties can make you appear ungrateful or unhappy in your role. If you have concerns or issues, it’s better to present them as constructive feedback or suggestions for improvement rather than as nags.
10. Giving False Information
Never lie or exaggerate to your boss, whether it’s about your skills, your workload, or your results. Honesty and integrity are crucial in the workplace.
Remember, every workplace and boss is different, and what’s considered inappropriate can vary. It’s essential to use your judgment and understand the culture and norms of your particular workplace, although I would encourage going with the flow, but do not loose your professionalism.