Sometimes You NEED to Say “No” to Your Boss or Client

I recently heard someone say that you must never say “no” to a client. I beg to disagree. That’s only true to a certain degree.

There are several instances when saying “no” the best thing you can do to help your boss, company, client or others. The top three:

1. When they are wrong. Yes, the old adage is that the customer is never wrong. If, however, what they want to do will adversely affect the company (yours or theirs), you have an obligation to say “no”. Politely, diplomatically and in a way that gives those involved the facts and lets everyone save face – but firmly, nevertheless. It is your responsibility to look out for the best interests of your client and/or company.
There will be times when your recommendations are overlooked, but you still have an obligation to speak up and say “no” if necessary. In these situations it’s usually a good idea to put your thoughts in writing. Having a quick memo which outlines the matter objectively, gives solid reasons as to why you disagree and offers an alternative solution may give the other parties an opportunity to really hear what you have to say and be persuaded. This paper trail could also serve as a CYA in case their “bad” decision comes back to haunt you personally.

2. When you know that you really cannot meet their deadline, no matter what you try. Yes, I believe that you should try to move heaven and earth to meet a client’s request when possible. Ditto when it comes to meeting your boss’ challenges. However, when you know you will not be able to meet the deadline, you must say so as soon as possible to give the other person a chance to find an alternate solution.

It is far worse to say “yes” and then let the person down, than it is to say “no” at the outset.

3. When you know the other person does not have all the facts. There are times when information has not flowed along corporate lines the way in an ideal manner. When another individual is making decisions based on faulty info, you have an obligation to say “no” and step up to the plate with the correct data... even if it puts you and/or your collegauges in a bad light temporarily. Believe me; it’s far better to take a moment’s worth of heat than it is to let major errors compound the existing problem.

There are also times when you need to say “no” to maintain balance in your work and personal life. To read more about that, please go to: http://www.theqgroup.com/articles-b.php?ArtID=39