There is one given which applies to communicating with superiors or employees as well as customers - no one wants to say "no". However, there are situations where "no" is the only correct answer. Seven typical situations where you should not blindly agree with what you are being offered were summarized on Inc.com.
You are not prepared
If you or your team is not ready to meet the requirements of your boss or customer, say so. Start up companies and managers especially make the mistake of promising everything when they can deliver only a fraction of it.
You tend to choose wrong people
Try to remember how much time you have wasted with a customer who never invests anything or employees who are never good at what they are supposed to do. Be optimistic, but do not kid yourself that everything will always work out.
You have no time
Do not be afraid to say that you are busy with other tasks. Promising something that you know in advance you will not be able to do creates a great deal of stress. Be aware of your limits and your health will benefit too.
It is an unrealistic request
When someone asks you for something as a professional, think like a professional. Do not agree to every request just to be kind. Further more, if you do not know the answer, ask for a bit of time so that you can find out more information.
It would be a step back
Why should you invest in opportunities that will not benefit your advancement? Try to choose opportunities that match your goals.
No profit on the horizon
If someone asks you for something, it should bring something to both of you. That does not only mean money, but could also be a new experience, new contacts, and above all, good feelings.
You know that you can't do it
Optimism is a good character trait, but not when you know that you can't handle something. Stick to a realistic idea about what you can handle and how quickly you can do it.
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