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Interview Patty

Learn how to say no

Understand this Skill

There is power in learning to say no, and there is skill in learning how to say no.

The word ‘no’ is one of the most feared in the English language. And the fear is not much of hearing the word, but of saying it. Women particularly find it hard to say no in the workplace, and largely this is because workplace training rarely includes the art of  saying ‘no’ the right way.

The truth about saying ‘no’ is that the higher you get in business, the more often you’ll have to say it.  Here are my guidelines to learn how to say no in a firm, but non-aggressive manner:

Take out the sting.  There are many ways of saying ‘No’ without actually using the two letter word.  A “not at this point”, or “let’s revisit this in the future” are less abrupt options.

Say No first.  You’ve been asked to attend a meeting for a client you’re not completely sure about.  Rather than saying ‘yes’ and cancelling, learn to say ‘no’ with the possibility of retracting it later.

Don’t feel guilty.  Do you think Richard Branson has a moment to reflect on the hundreds of no’s he gives every day?  This is business – it is a Yes and No game. Here are tips to help you with guilt issues.

Back yourself.  Requests can range from semi-reasonable to outright ridiculous.  Remember that this person is asking something of you, and make your decision with confidence.

Be brief.  There is a fine line between being sensitive, and leaving yourself wide open for debate.  Thank them for the request, but keep the reasoning behind your choice very limited.


Read the full article at:   thebusinesswomanmedia.com

Patty Block, President and Founder of The Block Group, established her company to advocate for women-owned businesses, helping them position their companies for strategic growth. Charting the course for impactful, sustainable, profitable businesses, the beacon is control: of your strategic direction, your money, your time, your staffing, and your ability to bring in business. The Block Group brings together the people, resources and ideas that build results.

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