Just say no!

We are constantly interrupted by colleagues who believe that we can take on some of their administrative tasks.  Our roles are partly administrative, however, the focus of our roles should be based on being strategic and operating as an extension of our executives to ensure their success. 

We have to realise how important our roles are and the difference that we can make. We need to grow in confidence, increase our skills, knowledge and reputation and be ready for whatever the changing workplace throws at us.

I understand that it is hard to say no, it is in our very nature that we want the best for people and saying no can often feel that we are letting them down. In fact, we are only letting ourselves and our executives down, taking on duties that our colleagues should be doing themselves reduces the value that we could be adding.

"The difference between successful people and very successful people is that very successful people say no to almost everything." Warren Buffett

I discussed with my executive the nature and amount of tasks I was being asked to complete by other people and how much time it was taking me away from working on our priorities. By doing this it gave me real confidence to understand who my executive actually wanted me to support and the boundaries that I could then set to manage people’s expectations.

This doesn’t mean that I’m unhelpful. Instead of me taking on the work for my colleagues, I can help in other ways such as pointing them in the right direction or by sending a link to the process on the intranet.

When it comes to saying no, this is my personal take on it:-

• Ask for clarification first to fully understand the request.
• Just say no and don’t beat about the bush.
• Do not start with “I’m sorry”. You have nothing to apologise for. 
• Be firm. If someone can't accept your no, then that person does not respect you.

 “While politeness is important, apologising just makes it sound weaker. You need to be firm, and unapologetic about guarding your time.” Leo Babauta

If you are someone who normally says yes to everything, a period of time will be required by yourself and your colleagues whilst an adjustment takes place.  

There are many, many articles online which you can look up to help you find your own ways to handle saying no, this is a particularly good one:-

https://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/the-gentle-art-of-saying-no.html

As with all things in life just make a start and give it a go. Reflect and find out what works for you and in the end you will see the difference that it makes to you and your executive.