Say NO!

There are certain times when we feel over scheduled and over loaded. Usually when this happens, we can’t perform at our best. One way to combat this is to say “no” when necessary. Saying no is vital to both your success and the success of your team.

Here is how to do it:

• Assess the situation: can my priorities be reorganized? When is it due? How important is it? Am I the only one who can do it?

• Be direct: after evaluating the situation, be honest and straightforward with your answer.

  • “I would be unable to do a good a job on your project and my other work would suffer.”

  • "I appreciate your asking me for help, but I'm stretched too thin right now to devote the time to be of quality help to you."

  • “My schedule is full; I can’t make it to the lunch.”

• Offer alternatives: be empathetic to the consequences of saying “no” and if you can, offer to help in small ways.

  • “Would it be helpful if I recommended others who might be able to work on this?

  • “What if I reviewed a first draft and sent feedback via email?”

  • “I can’t have lunch, but I could call you during my commute home.”

• Say a neutral no: watch your body language and tone, so the other person does not feel bad for asking for your help.

Agreeing to work on too many assignments and pitching in on too many projects leaves you stretched and stressed. Saying no tells your team (and your family and friends) that they can trust you to be honest with them. Saying no from time to time shows that you understand your workload and how you can best contribute.