Admit it, there are times you've regretted saying some things to your boss, it's caused problems, perhaps you've received a warning, maybe you alienated workmates, in more serious cases you may have lost the chance to be promoted. Saying the wrong thing to the boss is bad for careers, even if you're thinking it.

In fact you'd be better staying silent and finding another job than saying something that might hurt your current job and just maybe the reference you'll need when you get shortlisted for your dream job. Here are a few things to not say to the boss.

1. It can't be done. Maybe it can't, some things are impossible but most employers are also people and they know that they can only ask for your best effort. Instead, suggest ways the job can be done on time even if it means asking for assistance from colleagues.

2. It's not my fault. Often your boss will be the last person to know what is really happening around the office, but saying it isn't your fault might in fact make them think you're being defensive. Understanding that there is a problem that needs to be fixed is what is more important.

3. I can only do one thing at a time. Indeed, humans aren't very good at multitasking, but bosses tend to think employees who complain of being overworked aren't very effective. Try to find ways to organize your time so that important tasks are completed before less important tasks.

4. This job is easy, anyone could do it. A lot of jobs these days can be made easy using computers, or maybe you're just really brilliant, but in any event saying this translates to boring, stupid, or worse makes you look superior to your colleagues. Even when you're trying to motivate another person or make them feel at ease, in truth if someone struggles with your job, then the statement isn't true.

5. I'm overqualified for this job. Oops, be careful, try not to even think this one aloud, you'll make enemies quicker than you can say 'Boo!', it might be true, in this economic climate even more so. Just remember that the company is paying you a salary or wage to work so even if you think the job is beneath you grin and bear it.

6. That's not my job. Sadly many employers won't care, they think you are employed to do what the tell you irrespective of your job title or what your contract says. This is a tough one to deal with but the best advice is to seem a little confused and explain that normally this is a task done by another colleague, then ask why they are assigning the task to you.

7. It's not my problem. Lack of empathy or not caring about your workmates isn't a desirable trait, more often than not you'll come off worse. Bosses usually don't take well to this kind of attitude and you could get a grilling for not getting involved, or worse, the boss might just decide you're not dependable and give you all the worst tasks whilst a colleague gets the plum jobs.

If you enjoyed this article by Andy, he offers great advice about LED outdoor lights on his newest project, the LED desk light shop http://leddesklight.com/.