When you’re working for someone it’s sometimes hard to have control over your work situation. Crises and urgent matters come up constantly. But chasing every little emergency can be counter productive.
That’s why it’s so important to understand the best way to say no, namely by using the “can, can’t and why” model.
For example, if a boss asks you to answer the phone but you’re already on hold for a conference call for her, you could respond by saying, “I can see if Mary can get it. The reason I can’t get it right now is that I’m on hold for the conference call.”
If asked to do a report ASAP you could say, “I can do it in half an hour. I can’t do it until I’ve finished the report for the 9:00 am board meeting you requested.”
Does that make sense? You’re very open, explaining why you can’t do the request this instant.
When do you draw the line? An example would be when working with multiple bosses and they all want information at the same time. In this case let them work it out with each other, that’s the only win/win scenario.
Another example would be when you are already doing something else that’s a priority; when dropping what your’re doing to handle the task at that moment would be counterproductive to the bigger goal you and your boss want to acheive. Which, of course, means explaining to your boss why you need to say no in order to get the current project done effectively.
Saying “no” isn’t rejecting the request. It really means that you can’t do it this minute and there are alternatives you can offer. And don’t forget your body language. Ninety percent of initial communication is nonverbal. Use posture, eye contact and tone to communicate cooperation, conviction, professionalism and concern.
I’ll have some additional ideas for ways to increase your respect at work in an upcoming post. If you haven’t yet, be sure to put your name and email address in the boxes just below my picture at the top of the home page to receive a notification.
Best regards,
~ Jennifer
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