Embarrassing situations at work

Everybody faces it sometimes, an embarrassing situation at work. Good for you that StepStone is here to help!


27.06.2017

What do you say to your boss if he has something stuck between his teeth? How do you break the silence in the lift? Sometimes you can face embarrassing situations at work. But don’t worry, StepStone is here to help!

Travelling with the boss

Travelling alone on business with your boss can be hard work. You can be with one another for hours and may find you’ve exhausted all your topics of conversation before the aeroplane takes off! This can make the journey seem very long. In order to avoid any embarrassing situations, you can ask your boss if he doesn’t mind if you read. If your boss suggests going for a bite to eat together at the end of the day, it is not the done thing to refuse. Accept the invitation but don’t feel the need to stay longer than you have to. You can leave after the main course if you like. If you do, you can perhaps say you want a good rest before the next day.

Meeting colleagues in the lift

Some people prefer to take the stairs rather than the lift just to avoid being trapped with colleagues in a confined space. Here are a few handy tips and tricks who those who don’t have the energy to take the stairs: talk about the weather, your plans for the weekend or the traffic. They are banal subjects, but useful for this kind of conversation. In fact, what you talk about doesn’t really matter. Your colleague will just be happy to avoid an embarrassing silence.

A bit of broccoli in your boss’s teeth

After a business dinner with your boss, you notice a bit of broccoli stuck between his teeth. Of course, you want to avoid anyone else noticing it. Give him a discreet sign, without showing him you are embarrassed. If you can get him to understand in a relaxed, friendly way, he will be grateful.

Meeting your boss by accident out of work

You meet your boss while out of work. The most important thing is not to be nervous or look ill at ease. Don’t talk about work. It is better to discuss the environment you are in. For example, if you are at the cinema, talk about the film. If you have someone with you, don’t forget to introduce your friend or partner. You don’t need to stop and chat for long. The meeting could also provide fodder for a discussion in the lift in the next few days.

Meeting your boss in the toilets

For lots of people, it’s a nightmare. What do you do if you meet your boss in the toilets? Of course, shaking his hand is not a great idea. If there are separate toilet cubicles, there is no problem. But if there are just urinals, try not to stand right next to your boss. The situation could be embarrassing.

 

Recent jobs