Research shows that success and likability in the professional arena are positively correlated for men and negatively correlated for women. This means that the more “successful” or assertive a woman appears, the more she is judged negatively and disliked for it,” Forbes says, “Being criticized harshly for success consciously and subconsciously impacts how strident, self-assured and successful a woman wishes to appear.” If someone is pregnant and speaking about it, you can offer a “Congratulations!” Otherwise, don’t ask these types of questions. 6. Don’t Say: “Because I’m in charge.”

You can either come into conversations with “I know…” or if you don’t you can say “I’d love to explore this further.” 11. Don’t Say: “I’ll try.” This is a huge one. You should never ask such invasive questions as this. It can be harmful, rude and can come off as judgmental, even if you’re not trying to be. A person’s gender is theirs to disclose if they want to. If you’re curious about someone’s preferred pronouns, however, ask a person what their preferred pronouns are, so you can use them accordingly. Say this, instead:Another golden rule: never ask how old someone is. One, it’s not your business. Two, it can come across as ageist, even if you don’t mean it that way. Instead, it’s best to focus on other appropriate ways to get to know your coworkers. Say this, instead: Nothing is ever impossible. When you say this, it limits yourself and your team to find creative new ways of approaching work. Say this, instead:

Unless you want to be like Sarah from The Labyrinth, stop saying “It’s not fair.” It presents as whiny and unsupportive in the office. It’s often used when someone else is promoted, or someone got a raise, and another person didn’t. Instead of saying this, make a case for yourself, and see what happens. Say this, instead:Remember that thing your teacher used to say in school? There is no such thing as stupid questions. It still applies in the workplace, too. You’re selling yourself short leading with this and it can come across and unconfident. Say this, instead: If it’s not the first rule, it should always be the second. Never comment on a coworker’s appearance — especially in a negative way. They could be going through something, or simply didn’t get enough sleep, but this comment can come across as offensive. Instead, keep it to yourself. Say this, instead: Lead with “I have a question” or “I am not sure about this, could you help me?” 15. Don’t Say: “I told you so.”