Most likely, each of us wants to do good to other people - and rightly so. But sometimes they may ask us to do something that is beyond the reasonable, or for which we currently do not have time. And how annoying is it when a person does not understand your firm "no"!
This article provides practical advice on how to firmly refuse a refusal while not putting yourself and your employee in an awkward position. To determine if you need to say “no,” think about your goals and how your “yes” can affect these plans. Explain why you say no, propose an alternative solution, or introduce a person to someone who is more qualified to fulfill his request. But first things first.
Mature look
Of course, in order to successfully work in a team, you need to learn how to help people, build relationships with them and maintain communication. But sometimes you need to say no to their requests.
“No” is a one-word sentence. By saying it, you clearly explain your position. But remember: it’s important not only what you say, but also how the words are spoken. When you refuse, does your employee think that you are indifferent, that you do not care, or that you are absolutely not an outgoing person? The following are seven ways to say no and not stumble upon aggression (or something worse).
1. Say that at the moment you are very stressed
If the employee clearly sees that you have other urgent matters, he will not bother you. You can even explain to the person what you are working on now: let him realize the importance of your project. Then the employee will understand that you will let him down, if you take up his work, because you cannot do everything. It is important to assure that the next time there is not much work, you will definitely think about his problem. This will help you at least somehow smooth out the unpleasant situation.
2. Explain that you do not want to be distracted
If you know your goal, project or assignment, you can say no when someone comes up to you with something that distracts you from such work. Follow this method: tell people that your mission is to do what the leadership requires of you and, no matter how interesting their idea is, you will not spend your precious time on it. Invite to meet later to discuss their request.
3. Refer them to a more qualified partner
One of the best ways to answer no. You do not just refuse: you explain your position by sending an employee to someone who can really help. This is a normal process: people will respect you more when they realize that this is only for the best. There are more professional people willing to help. They will be grateful to you.
4. Explain that this does not meet your needs.
If you are offered something that you do not want to do, just say: "This does not correspond to my plans (interests)." On the other hand, you can show the person that you are open to future proposals or negotiations, if the topics are more relevant and interesting.
5. Ask for time to think.
This is one of the important points in business communication. Sometimes we rush to agree, but a hasty “yes” leads to many inconveniences, discomfort, or even serious problems. Do not rush to answer: if a person is interested in your help, he will agree to wait until you consider all the pros and cons. Helping others, you must not forget about their interests.
6. Suggest something else
We have already noted above that it is important to help a person seek better, alternative help.Why not give the employee an alternative solution to his problem? If you can’t do what is being asked, suggest something else. For example, often people ask you to call or send messages from your phone. If you need a device or you simply do not want to provide such assistance, you can tell what else can be done in this situation: for example, remind about the Internet connection.
7. When you say no, let the denial be obvious
Sometimes our "no" may sound like "maybe" or "I'm not sure." If you refuse, speak convincingly. It is often required to say no several times so that a person clearly sees our position.
Remember: decisiveness and firmness do not imply anger or excessive rigor. Be polite, smile and repeat what you said earlier.
Conclusion
The above tips do not mean that you should always say no. Use a similar word only when really busy and do not want to miss anything. Seek the opportunity to help others and say yes. As a result, people will reach for you, and you will feel a friendly atmosphere in the workplace.
So, if you still decide to refuse, remember some points: speak kindly, but firmly, be sure to offer your help another time or advise you to turn to someone who is more professional in this field. So you will not encounter an unpleasant attitude in the future: you show that you are really busy and you have important obligations.