tim management
RH

Forum home » Delegate support and help forum » Professional and Management support » Tim Management

Tim Management

resolvedResolved · Low Priority · Version 2003

Debbie has attended:
Time Management course

Tim Management

How to effectively say no

RE: Tim Management

Debbie

have you any particular areas in mind.

regards

Best Training team

RE: Tim Management

Hi David
Not really, just generally.

Many thanks.

RE: Tim Management

DEbbie

thanks for your reply, here are a few pointers that you may wish to consider -

We say "yes"to others because we want to please them. But when eventually we can't continue, we let them down and we feel guilty. Both parties suffer. Recognize that a desire to please often prevents us from saying no.

Stick to your plan. If you have a written set of goals and strategies, this gives you a reason to stick to your course. ("Thanks, but I already have an investment plan, so you don't need to send me a newsletter about stocks.")

When someone persists, repeat your position, perhaps in a slightly different way. ("As I already said, our policy is to donate to charities that help children only.")

Make sure you understand exactly what is being asked of you before you respond. Perhaps the task is more time consuming than you thought. On the other hand, it may not take much effort at all.

Excel at just a few things, rather than being just average at many. Don't try to do everything.

You have a right to say no. Remember that others may take you for granted and even lose respect for you if you don't.

Be polite, but firm in saying no. You only build false hopes with wishy-washy responses. For instance, the phrase "I'll try to be there" in response to a party invitation is giving yourself an excuse to avoid a commitment. It doesn't do anyone any favours.

When a superior asks you to do a new urgent task;
Remind him/her that you are working on other projects that he/she has already identified as top priorities

Ask for help in deciding where the new task should fall on the list of priorities

Point out that you might be able to do everything, but not to the usual high standards that are expected.

Some experts recommend keeping your answer short. This way, you can say no without feeling the need for a lengthy justification. ("I'm sorry, I'm not available that night.") On the other hand, others say that giving a longer answer with reasons reinforces your credibility. Let the situation decide.

Provide suggestions or alternatives to the person who is asking. ("I can't do that task today, but how about next week," or "How about asking John instead?")

When in doubt, it's easier to say no now, then change your mind to a yes later, rather than the other way around.

******************************************
When You Have to Say Yes consider the following -
******************************************
Sometimes, saying no is simply unavoidable. Here are some techniques to use:

Tell the person you can agree to their request this time, but ask how the two of you might plan better for the next time.

Tell them yes, but remind them they owe you one. For example, they might cover you for a shift next time you need time off.

Tell them yes, but take control by saying you'll come back to them with a timetable. For instance, say, "I expect I'll be able to do that for you by the end of the week."

Put a tough condition on your agreement. "If it would only take an hour, I'd be able to help, but I can't give you more than that."

And if all else fails use the age old excuse - "sorry not today, I have a headache" !! :)

hope this answers your question

regards

Best Time Team

 

Training courses

 

Training information:

Welcome. Please choose your application (eg. Excel) and then post your question.

Our Microsoft Qualified trainers will then respond within 24 hours (working days).

Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Resolved' mean?

Any suggestions, questions or comments? Please post in the Improve the forum thread.


 

Management Training tip:

Setting To Do Lists

Improve your time management techniques by writing down your daily to do list for that day on the previous evening. You then don't have to get up and wonder "what do I need to do today" - you just hit the ground running.

View all Management Training hints and tips


Server loaded in 0.06 secs.