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The Importance Of Saying ‘No’ In Your Career

It's one of the smallest words in the dictionary but also, in context of the workplace at least, one of the most difficult to say.

'No'.

It can make you look selfish, or attract unwanted criticism, disappointment or attention from a boss.

But if you want to keep on top of everything, and stay healthy in the process, it's a key word to learn, and when to use it is even more important.

How many times have we all, essentially, worked for free? Whether it's that email that needs sending five minutes after clock-off time, or over the weekend, we've all been there - or will at some point.

So, what can be done? Here are a few alternatives.

1. Offer other ways around. Instead of flatly refusing to do something for a client or your boss, steer the conversation in the direction you want it to go by offering an alternative.
2. Don't be afraid to ask for help! If you feel you're being railroaded into doing something you're not comfortable with, lean on colleagues, friends or family to support you.
3. Remain calm. Most importantly, it's important to not get upset. A professional and calm demeanour will show your 'No' is final enough, but you're open to alternatives to still get the job done.

Try it for yourself. Next time you are at work and you are faced with a difficult situation, use the N word! Saying ‘No’ more often will not only gain you more respect from your boss and colleagues, it will also allow you to focus on what’s really important to your job instead of getting bogged down because you felt you had no alternative.

It’s an empowering experience saying ‘No’, and you just might find that once you try it, you won’t want to go back.