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Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Can I ask you a question? That’s one of the things NOT to say at work.


Are you polite at work? That’s nice – just don’t overdo it. 

Barbara Pachter, author of “The Essentials of Business Etiquette,” has a few phrases we should really avoid using in the office:

• Can I ask a question? Just ask—don’t request permission.

• I’m sorry to bother you. Don’t be sorry and don’t be a bother. Just say, “Excuse me” and spit it out. 

• I was hoping you could spare a few moments. Again, just say, “Excuse me.”

• Thank you for listening to me. A simple “thank you” is enough.

• I will be honest with you. This implies that you aren’t honest at other times.

• I was just wondering if perhaps… This backs into a question—ask what you want to know.

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