If your complaint involves a person, avoid attacking that individual. Don't complain that individual is stupid or inconsiderate. Complain that what individual did was stupid or inconsiderate. If a person works really hard, they might be able to change how they act, but they can never change who they are.

Complaining about your boss or a higher manager is very dangerous. Don't complain about boss to your coworkers. If your boss loses face, only way to gain back their self respect may be to fire you. Ask your boss for a private meeting and discuss problem in a calm and polite manner.

Whether person you are complaining about is your boss or a coworker, try to make some compliments along with complaint. Everybody has good and bad characteristics. Make sure individual understands that you recognize and appreciate their good characteristics. That person may not realize that anyone thought they had good characteristics and you may gain a new friend.

Note: Similar to never complaining about your boss to coworkers, a consultant should never complain about his company to firm that he is hired out to.

It may be difficult to recognize, but all problems have a good side. Many problems are opportunities in disguise. Look for positive side in every problem. Approach all problems with a sense of humor. If you can find positives or humor in a problem and you make positive statements to your coworkers and your boss, you will greatly improve your prospects for success at work.

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Don’t be meek. Say no directly without excuses. Excuses make you appear as if you aren’t in control of your decisions. If you say “I’m sorry but…” this only weakens your stand. If you have decided saying yes is not in your best interest, no apology is necessary.

What if they won’t take no for an answer? If someone won’t take no for an answer, repeat your position. Maintain your stand and don’t allow yourself to be manipulated or strong armed. No means no and you have right to stand by your choice. Feel good about your decision to say no Feel calm, confident, and comfortable with your decision to say no. Be secure knowing it’s enough to say no simply because you just don’t want to.

Remember, learn how to say no is a win-win situation for everyone.