Career Development: Learning to Say ‘No’ at Work

While helping out and being generous are two very good traits, allowing yourself to be taken advantage of is not. You are just as important as everyone else, and there are times when you must stand up for yourself. Failing to do so, can cripple your chances of a promotion and can hinder you for doing your own work.

Follow these 4 tips to ensure you take control and get what you want:

• Never make excuses. There is nothing wrong with saying the word “No.” Remember it is well within your rights as a human being to say “No.” By making excuses while saying “No,” you weaken your stance and are forced to continually cover up for your excuses.
• Be courteous but direct. You don’t have to be rude in order to stand up for yourself. By looking someone in the eye and telling them directly your stance on the situation, you can effectively stand up for yourself without resorting to being rude.
• It’s okay to ask for some time to think things over. If you’re not sure you have the time or can handle the favor they are asking, tell them you have to think about it. Take that time to honestly reflect on your situation and come up with the best response.
• Practice standing up for yourself in your day-to-day life away from work. For instance, if a store clerk asks to take down your address and telephone number for their records, look them in the eye and say “No.” Like everything, the more you stand up for yourself, the easier it becomes.

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