Alastair WallaceCEO. Lead Consultant. Trainer. Coach, Brainfood Ltd · Leadership & Management Training for Busy Managers. Helping senior leaders stop handholding | Brain-friendly, diary-friendly | Save 5+ hours a week | 23,500 managers trained | 200% ROI guaranteed. TED

3 steps to SAYING NO smoothly and effectively

19 Nov 2023 · 1 min

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1:11

In this brief instructional video, Alastair Wallace discusses the personal and professional challenges of over‑committing and the importance of setting clear boundaries. He presents a concise three‑step method for declining requests politely yet assertively: (1) be honest, direct, timely, and factual; (2) acknowledge the impact the refusal may have on the other person; and (3) propose or explore alternative solutions. Using concrete example phrases, he demonstrates how each step can be applied in workplace scenarios, emphasizing that setting boundaries is a sign of strength rather than weakness.

Chapters

I hate saying no sometimes. Do you? We feel like saying yes at work and at home sometimes makes for an easy life and means that people see us in a positive light. Hmm, that's not always the case though, is it? It can make us feel resentful when we overcommit and sacrifice things that are important to us, and it can make us look weak as leaders too. Boundaries are liberating, so get yours in order. Here's a 3-step hack to say no in a polite and positive way. Step 1: Be honest, direct, timely, and factual. For example, "I need to be in an important client meeting Tuesday afternoon." Step 2: Demonstrate an awareness of the impact on the other party. For example, "I realise this means I can't come to your report design meeting tomorrow." Step 3: Present or seek options for the way forward. Again, for example, how about we discuss the content at 2 PM today and I can review the report on Thursday? Or, how else can I help? Having boundaries is strength, not weakness. Go well.