Just Say No

Many managers suffer the pressure of self-overload. Simply stated, they just take on too much work. Probably because they've learned to say yes so often in their careers. Indeed, most people usually gain their management positions by saying yes to special requests and extra duties. It's a hard habit to break. But it can also overwhelm you.

Sometimes we need to say no. To things that aren't within the normal scope of our responsibilities. To special projects best done by others. And especially when the request properly belongs to someone else. Here's three C's that can help you say no when you have to.

Say No Clearly -- Don't beat around the bush. If your decision is no, then say so. You can always include the proper words of empathy or sympathy as long as they don't create a sense of "wiggle room." Saying "I'm sorry but I just don't have time to help with that" gives the impression that you can help if we can find ways to free up your time or reset your priorities. Saying "I'm sorry but I won't be able to help with that" is a clear approach.

Say No Cleanly -- Don't delay the final decision or give false hope by saying things like "maybe later," or "I'll get back to you."

If it's your boss, say it Carefully. After all, your boss ultimately controls your priorities. But bosses sometimes ask us to do things that really belong to someone else. Perhaps because the boss just didn't think about it, or perhaps because the boss knows we usually say yes to any of their requests.

Think of it this way: If you say no to the things you shouldn't be doing, you'll have more time to say yes to the things you should be doing.


About Pelleyblog. This blog covers topics of interest to managers, particularly those at the first-line supervisor level. Topics include handling difficult employees, leadership, counseling, coaching, problem solving, lean thinking, motivation and time management. We welcome your comments on this post.

Copyright © 2009 Daniel W. Pelley
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