Some people are masters at sounding busy while accomplishing absolutely nothing. They’ve perfected the art of the non-answer, the blame dodge, and the responsibility shuffle. Experts say these folks rely on the exact predictable phrases to mask their lack of competence. The worst part? Most of us don’t even realize we’re being played. Here are 10 common things every incompetent employee keeps repeating.
That’s Not My Job
Saying “that’s not my job” may sound harmless, but it quietly builds walls at work. It tells others you’re unwilling to grow or be part of a team. People who step in when needed do earn trust faster and open doors to bigger opportunities.
I Don’t Know How
We all face moments when we say, “I don’t know how,” which is a common response when things feel unclear. But what matters more is what happens right after. Certain people stop after that, while others turn it into motivation, seek guidance, and aim to upskill.
That’s Impossible
Labeling a task impossible means that the person has no idea what to do and no will to find a solution. It’s like closing a door before checking if it was even locked. Some of the world’s biggest discoveries happened because someone tried one more time. So, that effort always reveals what’s truly possible.
It’s Not Fair (Almost Always)
Work doesn’t always go as we expect, and sometimes things feel unfair. However, maturity shows in how we respond. Instead of constant complaining, wise employees choose calm conversations and clear steps. They focus on finding solutions, not sympathy, and that earns them quiet respect.
Someone Else Will Handle It
It starts small—a task handed off, a promise delayed. Before long, others notice and begin to pull back, too. Workplaces crumble not from one person’s mistake, but from the quiet passing of duties. On the other hand, real success begins when people stop waiting for someone else to act.
I Don’t Care
Expressing “I don’t care” may seem small, but it sends a loud message, as it tells others that the teammate is disconnected and uninterested. Over time, that kind of energy spreads like fire. The management remembers enthusiasm, not indifference, as these qualities mostly shape how they perceive an employee’s value.
That’s Not How I Learned It
Some people resist change by holding onto what once worked. An employee can say, “That’s not how I learned it,” and refuse to adjust. While others learn and grow with the changes, they continue to struggle to keep up. The real challenge they have isn’t knowledge, but mindset.
I Was Just Following Orders
We’ve all heard someone say, “I was just following orders,” right? When they say this, it is usually interpreted as they’re avoiding blame. But work is about showing that you understand what’s needed and can think beyond what’s written on a to-do list, rather than just doing the bare minimum.
It’s Not My Problem
Saying it’s not your problem feels like setting boundaries. In reality, it shows you don’t know how to solve it. The boss sees who steps up when things get tough. And with time, everyone remembers those who helped move the team forward and the ones who stepped aside.
I Don’t Make Mistakes
The most counterproductive statement in any workplace is “I don’t make mistakes.” This defensive response blocks personal growth and creates barriers between team members. Smart professionals understand that errors are stepping stones to improvement, and they welcome constructive feedback as learning opportunities.
