Saying NO

I often hear that one should be able to say no. What does this mean and how do I say no when I have to?

That is absolutely correct! One should know when to say NO and how to say NO. One of the things the Walk and Talk guide is very serious about, is to assist the individual to do the right work at the right time. Being able to say NO is a crucial skill of the serious career and business builder.

It is a huge privilege to be able to say NO to work. This means you have more than you can cope with at the present time.

When you say NO, remember to never allow the Monkey to pass! This means the other person has a "Monkey" on their back, a problem they want your assistance with. You want to be absolutely certain that this Monkey will not be jumping anywhere! For example, you know that you will not be able to become involved in a certain project or problem at that specific time. The other person comes to you with a Monkey on their back and they want this Monkey to jump.

You know your priorities does not have place for this new Monkey. The moment you ask a question such as: "Tell me more" or "How can I help?" the Monkey jumps, you accept responsibility.

Do not allow the monkey to jump! Read more on the web about this principle.

So how do I handle the situation to ensure the Monkey does not jump, but both parties grow from the situation? How do I say NO effectively?

Look for alternatives with the other individuals, keep the Monkey with them through carefully questioning. Not spending too much time, just ask the following questions:

• What alternatives exist to help you solve this challenge?
• Is this issue you have a specific individuals job and you should pass the Monkey back to that person?
• Who in your team is available to help and assist that can grow from this challenge?
• Do you know anybody else with the expertise you are looking for?

Look for a solution which will cause the best stacking for all those involved. Learn more about delegation here.

Stacking is the process of identifying the different solutions for a challenge and deciding which mixture of these solutions will cause optimum growth for all involved.

Being it building career skills or a bigger business network. Stack all the solutions and look for the best blend.

Once you are able to say NO this way, both parties will always grow from the experience. Saying NO becomes a fun and learning experience!

Unre Visagie

At Aleph we realized we had to start saying no to many new opportunities when our processes were no longer in the development and selling phase, but moved into the implementation phase.