Say 'No' to Boss Gracefully

'No' is one of the shortest words in the English language. But the trouble with 'No' is that it often frustrates the person on the receiving end by making him feel powerless. It can create powerful, usually negative feelings. How to get your way without turning off your boss? Here are simple ways:-

• Always try to express the pronouns "I" & "you" in to "we": "I have reviewed the drafted Company HR Policies, and found that we need to make some changes in it".


• Bring up alternatives, using brief phrases as "I"am stronger in this field" & "make the best use of resources".

Avoid using the words which underscore negativity and inability such as can't, impossible, incapable, mistaken, overloaded, ridiculous, tired and won't.

If your boss is wrong like neglecting details, forgetting how to accomplish the basic tasks or always forgetting appointments, do not correct his mistake. Instead, focus on getting clarification and confirmation of instructions.

It will be difficult to say 'No' to the boss who is tyrant, plain, simple & barking out commands. Without threatening your boss's self image, let him tell what he really wants and work out together.

The hard-driving boss can be exciting and inspiring to work for, if he does not drive you in to the ground with unreasonable demands. Remind your boss even the most dedicated workers need a break.  If accelerated pace is a chronic problem, discuss with your subordinates and enlist  their support before talking to your boss.

• Your boss invites you and your family to dinner, but you have previous engagement that you cannot break. Politely tell him your inability to accept his invitation due to previous engagement which you cannot break. Tell him to  give you another opportunity.

In short, do not just say 'No' and leave it at that. Try to create a bridge of empathy and understanding that helps both of you get over the negative emotions. It is usually better to under-react than to overreact.

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