Workplace Talk
Talking about the weather—appropriate or not appropriate?
Appropriate. It's a safe, friendly topic.
Your coworker asks you to help them, but you’re still finishing your own task. What would you do?
Politely say, “I need to finish this first, but I can help after.”
"I hate this job!" ➝ What’s a more positive way to say this?
“I’m having a tough day today.”
Your boss gives you feedback on your work. How do you show respect?
Listen, nod, say “Thank you,” and try to improve.
Your coworker finished a big project. What could you say?
“Great job finishing that project!”
Telling your coworker about your weekend plans—appropriate or not appropriate?
Appropriate, if it’s short and appropriate for work (like, “I went to the park”).
Someone spills coffee near your workstation. What would you do?
Help clean it up or let a supervisor know. Stay calm and helpful.
"This task is too hard." ➝ What’s a more positive way to say this?
“Can someone help me learn this task?”
A coworker asks you a question while you’re busy. How do you show respect?
Say, “Give me one moment, I’ll help you as soon as I can.”
A coworker got a compliment from the manager. What could you say?
“Nice! That was really cool to hear!”
Complaining about how much money you make—appropriate or not appropriate?
Not appropriate. Money talk can make others uncomfortable.
A customer is being rude to you. What would you do?
Stay calm, don’t argue, and get a supervisor if needed.
"I don’t want to work with them." ➝ What’s a more positive way to say this?
“Can I please work with someone else today?”
You disagree with a coworker. How do you respond respectfully?
Say, “I see it differently. Can we ask the boss what’s right?”
Your coworker got a job interview for a position you also wanted. What could you say?
“Good luck—you’ll do great!”
Asking a coworker if they believe in ghosts or a conspiracy theory—appropriate or not appropriate?
Not appropriate. It could make someone feel uncomfortable or confused.
Your boss asks you to do something you've never done before. What would you do?
Say, “I haven’t done that before—can you show me how?”
"I'm not good at anything." ➝ What’s a more positive way to say this?
“I’m still learning, but I’m trying my best.”
Your shift ends, but a team member asks for help finishing up. How do you show respect?
If possible, help out or say, “I can stay for 5 more minutes.”
Your team member found a new job they’re excited about. What could you say?
“Congratulations! I’m happy for you.”
Talking to your boss about your dating life—appropriate or not appropriate?
Not appropriate. Personal topics like dating should be kept out of work conversations.
A coworker makes a joke that makes you uncomfortable. What would you do?
Tell them politely, “That made me uncomfortable,” or talk to a supervisor if needed.
"Why did they get the promotion and not me?" ➝ What’s a more positive way to say this?
“I’m happy for them. I’ll keep working hard for my chance.”
You make a mistake at work and your boss finds out. What respectful action can you take?
Admit the mistake, say, “I’m sorry,” and ask how to fix it.
You didn’t get the promotion, but your coworker did. What could you say to show support?
“You earned it—congrats! I’ll keep working hard too.”