14 things bosses should never say during a performance review

"Criticism, like rain, should be gentle enough to nourish a man's growth without destroying his roots." - Frank A. Clark

"As the adage goes, 'Words are free. It's how you use them that may cost you,'" says Darlene Price, president of Well Said, Inc., and author of "Well Said! Presentations and Conversations That Get Results." "What you say to your employees in their annual reviews can chart a better course for their future, or demoralize them."

Words spoken by an authority figure, such as a manager or boss, are particularly impactful, she explains. "That's why it's a good idea to choose them carefully - to ensure your employees know you care about them and their performance, and to inspire them to give the best they have to offer."

Here are 14 phrases to avoid in the performance review: