Stop Oversharing at Work (Before It Hurts You)
Oversharing ruins more careers than bad bosses.
You get comfortable with coworkers, the conversation flows, and before you know it, you’ve just shared something you wish you hadn’t.
It feels harmless in the moment.
But oversharing can quietly hurt your reputation. You stop being seen as “reliable” and start being remembered as “that person who talks too much.”
It’s the same quiet trap I explain in Why Your References Are Costing You Offers: one small slip can cost you opportunities.
Here’s how to cut it off, without becoming cold or distant.
The 1-Question Filter
Before you share anything, ask:
👉 “Would I be okay if my boss repeated this in a meeting?”
If the answer is yes → say it.
If the answer is no → keep it to yourself.
This filter is simple, fast, and it saves you from 90% of career-killing overshares.
It works just like the focus system I outline in Stop Applying Everywhere: The 10-Application Strategy That Works: fewer, sharper moves always beat random volume.
The 3 Common Traps to Avoid
After-work drinks → alcohol lowers your filter.
Trying to be funny → jokes about your life rarely land how you think.
Bonding through negativity → complaining feels like connection but makes you look small.
Your career isn’t a reality show. Keep your highlight reel, not your bloopers.
If you’re not sure how to show your highlight reel on paper, read Your Resume Has a Math Problem to turn vague bullets into proof.
Related Reading
If this hit home, you’ll also want these:
Ghosted by Recruiters? Fix the Real Problem: stop sending resumes into the void and get real replies.
The 5-Minute Networking System: build real connections without awkward small talk.
The Interview Answer Framework: a simple structure to stop rambling and impress any hiring manager.
That’s the high-level view.
But if you want the exact scripts and daily habits I give paying clients, you’ll find them in the premium section below.
💡 Launch Bonus
Upgrade this week and you’ll also get my PDF guide: The Career Conversation Reset Toolkit.
It’s a 5-page playbook with scripts to prevent oversharing, pushing back on your boss, and handling awkward coworker moments.
Only the first 20 paid subscribers get this bonus.