The Problem With “No Problem”: How To Annoy Everyone At Work

by | Jun 24, 2019

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[xyz-ips snippet=”post-thumb-url”]It’s one of the most common phrases used around the office, and chances are it’s annoying everyone who hears it.

What do you say when someone asks you to do something at work? Or what about if they thank you for getting something done? Nine times out of ten your response is “no problem.” And that’s the problem.

According to Real Simple Magazine, there are a couple reasons why saying the phrase “no problem” might not win you any brownie points with your boss, or even some of your co-workers.

For one thing, it’s a very casual thing to say and some people can interpret it as you not really caring. This can be especially true if you just started working at the company and haven’t really established yourself or your reputation yet.

Another reason to avoid it when you can, some people take it literally. If you say “no problem” the implication there is that there was or could be something wrong, when that person is just asking you to do your job.

So maybe stick to the traditional phrases of “you’re welcome” or “I’ll get right on it.”

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Brian Banmiller

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CBS News Radio national business journalist Brian Banmiller has spent more than 40 years in the news industry, covering business, politics and the economy on television, radio and in print. Currently, his “Banmiller on Business” reports are delivered to an audience of millions nationwide.

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