Boss Warning Signs: If your boss shows these signs, your job could be at risk. Here’s what you should never say to your senior.

There are times at the office when you work with complete sincerity, yet your boss fails to offer the expected praise, promotion, or positive rating. The reason may not lie solely in your work performance but in a deteriorating professional relationship with your boss. Bosses often do not express their displeasure in so many words; instead, changes in their behavior signal a growing rift in the relationship. If these signs are recognized early and you work on your shortcomings, the situation can be salvaged. Let us look at what you should avoid saying to your senior at all costs.

If your boss used to inquire about your well-being, offer advice, or engage in casual conversation beyond work matters, but now limits interactions to essential tasks and has become noticeably curt, it could indicate a shift in their perception of you. Changes in any relationship rarely happen overnight, so such behavioral shifts should not be ignored.

Every manager has a unique working style. Some provide regular feedback while others do not; however, if your boss reviews the work of other team members, praises them, or offers suggestions for improvement while completely ignoring you, it could be a cause for concern. In such a scenario, it is best to take the initiative and ask for feedback on your work yourself.

If your boss starts responding to you in monosyllables, shows no interest in what you say, ignores you, or gives you the "silent treatment" without apparent reason, it is not a good sign. At such times, reflect on recent events and try to determine if something specific occurred that might have upset them. If you realize a mistake has been made, take the time to have an open conversation about it.

If your salary remains stagnant or sees only a marginal increase despite your good performance, your boss's perception of you could be a contributing factor. Employees often consider their work excellent, whereas their boss might see room for improvement. In such situations, rather than speculating, speak directly to your senior; if they point out any shortcomings, make an effort to address them.

If you used to be assigned key projects but responsibilities are now being handed to others, if you are no longer invited to meetings, or if your opinion is not sought during team discussions, lunches, or other activities, it could signal a decline in your boss's confidence in you. A persistent pattern of this nature should serve as a warning sign.

To maintain a strong position in your job, avoid making certain statements to your boss—such as "This isn't my job," "I don't plan to stay at this company for long," "I've always worked this way," "I refuse to work for such low pay," or "I don't care." Such remarks can cast doubt on your professionalism and create a negative impression on your boss.