If you’re on the job hunt, you’ve doubtless heard cautionary advice about revealing TMI during an interview:

• trashing a former boss
• discussing personal finances
• dishing about your love life

Yikes – makes us cringe just thinking about it. But once you’ve landed the position, all bets are off – right?

No way!

To ensure your long-term success within an organization, it’s best to leave certain things unsaid. Forever. Because like it or not, coworkers and superiors silently judge everything you reveal about yourself at work. Build and protect your professional reputation by never discussing these taboo topics on the job:

Related post: Words and Phrases Smart People Never Use in Conversation

Religion or Politics

These two issues are a metaphorical jab-punch to your career’s jawline. Everyone has the right to their religious and political beliefs, and to practice them as they see fit. But faith and politics are sensitive, polarizing topics which can fuel tempers and cause unnecessary divisiveness at work. Our advice? Avoid them like the plague. And if someone broaches either subject with you, listen without interjecting your opinion.

Your (ahem) Romantic Escapades

Have you ever wanted to cover your ears and run from a coworker who felt it necessary to share vivid details about last night’s date? Then you understand why your dating/personal life is off-limits at work. The topic may make fellow employees uncomfortable – or worse yet – compel them to file a sexual harassment complaint against you. Obviously, neither is good for your career.

Someone Else’s Incompetence

Every organization has bungling, inefficient employees. And everyone knows who they are – so there’s no need for you to point them out to coworkers. While a fellow employee’s incompetence may frustrate you, remember this: making someone else look bad never makes you look any better; it just makes you look insecure.

Your Glory Days

It can be tempting to chime in about your partying days when the subject comes up at work, but it’s best to bite your tongue. Your past speaks volumes about you, and people make assumptions about your character and judgement based on the stories you share.

Health Problems

If you have a medical issue or chronic condition, be careful not to focus on it too much at work. Over time, continual complaining may irritate coworkers and lead management to wonder if you’re well enough to perform on the job. When you need to take sick leave, discuss it privately with your employer – and remember that you’re not required to provide details.

On the Job Hunt?

Searching for Professional, Temporary Employees or New Hires?

For two decades, the Exact Family of Companies has connected talented professionals with leading employers to build successful careers and businesses. We pride ourselves on investing time with our associates and client companies to find the right career and staffing solutions.

What can we do for you? Search jobs or find talent here.