How to say “no” without actually saying “no”?
A funny paradox happens at work or in other contexts: Most people think hard before accepting a task, but hardly think at all when assigning a task to someone else.
So, your Slack and email are full of messages like…
“Hey, can you spin up some new headlines for me?”
“Hey, can you review this campaign we’re working on?
“Hey, can you join this meeting with our Head of Sales?”
“Hey, can you…”
And if you’re like most, it’s hard to say no. You don’t want to look weak or ineffective.
So you sit there on Slack, palms sweaty, writing and rewriting a message that basically says, “Ummm, no.”
Here’s a better way to turn down a request
Instead of saying “no,” state the tradeoff of doing what you’re being asked to do.
For example, if someone asks you to spend a day working on a new project, you could say:
“Sure, I can do that, but it means I’ll miss the deadline I’ve been assigned for the Facebook Ads project we’re working on.
Should this take priority over that?”
It’s simple, but this approach is refreshingly effective for killing those notorious ad-hoc requests.
And it’ll make your life a whole lot easier.
If you have to say no the hard way
Saying no can be difficult, especially if you feel like you have to justify your decision. However, there are ways to say no without being rude or unprofessional. Here are a few tips:
1. Be assertive and direct.
2. Explain your reasons for saying no in a concise and clear manner.
3. Offer an alternative solution if possible.
4. Avoid using negative language or tone of voice.
5. Thank the person for their request or offer.
Following these tips can help you say no in a way that is respectful and professional.
