Continued from page 1
If someone asks you to do something that you are unable to do or don’t want to do—simply say, “no”.
Some examples:
You are asked to a party you are unable to attend:
You say: “Thank you for
invitation, though I already have other commitments for that time.”
You say: “My schedule is packed that day and I won’t be able to make it.”
You say: “It’s been a rough week and I planned to stay home that night and take time for myself. Thanks for
invitation.”
Your boss asks you to handle a new project that you couldn’t possibly finish on time.
You say: “Our department is currently involved with three other projects. In order to finish this project on time, one of those projects will need a time extension or to be delegated to another department. Is there someone else who can handle this project or can one of our other projects be delegated to another team?”
You say: “Can
deadline for this project be extended to
end of
month?” If ‘no’, then use
answer above.
You say: “That project will require my undivided attention. Which of
other items we are working on can I delegate to Mike?”
Sitting in
food court in
mall one Saturday afternoon, I overheard a woman telling her husband about a ridiculous request made to her by her boss. The husband asked her how she responded to
request and his exasperated wife exclaimed, “It’s my boss! What was I going to say…no?”
Saying “no” effectively is a powerful tool. Those who say no successfully have more control over their schedules and feel more in control of their lives, especially when it comes to saying no to authority figures. It’s a tiny word, but is jam packed with power. Learn how to use is effectively and you will increase your power exponentially.

Kirstin Carey is an award-winning speaker and consultant and Principal of Orange Tree Training & Speaking Group. She works with organizations on effective and persuasive communications. Her company also has a special division which focuses on helping women advance and succeed through more effective communication skills without having to communicate like a man. To find out how Kirstin can help you, call (800) 380-6520 or go to www.powHERful.com