When, why and how to say no in the workplace are the three topics covered by lawyer and career resource expert, Kathy Morris, in a recent ABA Career Resource podcast.
Saying no when you are overbooked is fine, if agreeing means missing a deadline or doing less than your best work. Of course, you should let the assigning person know the reason, advises Morris.
She also notes that many people are afraid of getting a bad reputation by saying no. But in reality, a bad reputation can be earned by saying yes just as easily when unable to deliver the goods in a timely fashion.
However, Morris warns, "No" shouldn’t be used to avoid tackling a project that involves having to do something new or unknown. There’s no time like the present to learn a new skill. Further, you shouldn’t say no in order to avoid working with a difficult person, she advises.
In addition to citing a heavy workload when saying no, Morris suggests offering an alternative time. Explain a willingness to do the project later, if that fits with the constraints of the project’s urgency.
To listen to the podcast, click here. The career resource podcast features practical career tips from national leaders within the legal profession.
