E21/S2 SAYING NO - Can be empowering and helpful to your success, but handle it with care

Esme is deep in project work when the delegation arrives at her cubicle. All three team members wait patiently until she saves her current activity, and Andrew explains so that she can give them her full attention.  Esme asks the team members some questions before committing to helping them with their project. This can make saying "no" empowering and helpful to success. But you need to say no with care. In this case Esme offers some alternative  names who might help the delegation.

As the delegation retreats, clutching the list of names, Esme pauses to consider what’s happened.  One of the most challenging things she has learned in the last year is how to say "no" without upsetting those on the receiving end. Occasional refusals need to rest on solid ground and win respect, enhancing rather than damaging your reputation. Being willing to say "no" at work can be a powerful tool to protect yourself and enhance your integrity.

Andrew then goes on to answer three main questions that people have about saying "no" at work: why saying "no" is important, how to avoid feeling guilty about saying "no," and when and how to say "no" to the boss or senior person.  Andrew explains that saying "no" at work is essential because over-committing to clients, family, or new projects can leave no time for yourself or your pet projects.  He also suggests ways to avoid feeling guilty about saying "no," such as being honest, setting clear boundaries, and learning "no" phrases to make the conversation easier.  Finally, Andrew advises that when it comes to saying "no" to the boss or senior person, it's essential to ensure that it's worth taking a stand and to never give in to demands that are abusive, unethical, or illegal.

 

Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version. Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at

www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading

and

www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch. BOOK: The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.

www.myhappinessatwork.com/book