How to professionally say 'no' to your colleagues, set boundaries at work – and even throw shade

Laura Whaley has become a sensation on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, not just for sharing memes and silly videos, but also for teaching people how to professionally express their workplace frustrations. 

Her videos feature her virtually chatting with her "work besties" and demonstrating how to present catty comments in a more diplomatic manner, thereby helping people communicate their frustrations at work with better clarity and effectively discussing topics like pay raises and setting boundaries. 

Whaley believes in communicating effectively and using the appropriate vocabulary in a formal setting and offers helpful tips for dealing with difficult situations. Insider has compiled a list of some of Whaley's most useful phrases that can help handle challenging workplaces professionally.