Recalling my experience as a high school teacher, I had a mentor who advocated on a thought of “Never Say No” when a superior requires a task to be done. I kept and practiced it as I deal with my superiors. The impact was good for I learned new skills and experiences especially from tasks which are not on my area of expertise. Like for instance, teaching High School Algebra where my specialization is Science. I don’t like to be misunderstood. This does not imply that Science teachers could not teach algebra but what I am pointing out is the fact that a science teacher needs more preparation for him to teach the subject well.
I agree that the “Never Say No” thought has positive impact on everyone’s fate but everyone must consider that this is not applicable in all circumstances. If in your mind and heart you can foresee the possibility of having a problem, not that you don’t have confidence or guts to accomplish the task but it is because you just feel indifferent, then you need to say “No” and better refuse rather than regret later. It is not easy to turn down someone’s want especially from a superior for it means a great disappointment and a feeling of failure to him. However, if you do it elegantly your superior will understand.
Here are some tips that may help you say “no” without much disappointment of the one who does a request. I read this from Confident Women Australia Site.
The first tip is to say “Thank you” before saying “no”.
The second tip reaffirms the value of using a pleasant, warm voice tone. A more sarcastic or dismissive voice is discouraged as it can sound aggressive and sour relationships.
The third tip recommends saying “no” without giving excuses or reasons. It has been found by Confident Woman Australia that when reasons are given there is an increased likelihood of arguments arising. People will argue with the reason rather than with the “no”.
Finally it is important that people are able to stick to what they say and have the self-confidence to repeat themselves. When the first “no” is not respected or acted upon, the same thing can be said again.
By Dr. Mindweb
http://www.nobleteachers.com/?p=281
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