I recently found this post about 40 Topics You Can’t Discuss at Work by Karen Burns. I thought it was one of the best articles I had read on this subject in awhile. How often do you find co-workers that constantly speak about things you wished they wouldn’t, and no one wants to put them self in the category of being that person. Here is the list that Karen Burns created. This list may seem oppressive, but I don’t think we can always know the impact our comments can have on other people.
She notes that the last 7 aren’t terribly horrible, but that you shouldn’t go on and on about these subjects because others do not want to hear about such subjects at length. After going over everything that you shouldn’t say, what should you talk about?
- weather
- hobbies and interests
- classes you are taking
- sports
- art
- history
- music
- movies you have seen recently
- programs on TV
Limiting office conversation limits the amount of exposure you have regarding your personal life. While some co-workers may become lifelong friends, the reality of the situation is that you don’t want to give people opportunity to dislike you, to single you out, or even to limit your chances at a promotion. So mind what you say in the office, keep conversations pleasant, and limit your conversation topics.
