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spitfire78
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« on: June 26, 2001, 09:52:11 am » |
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Ah, a subject close to my heart! We all know that, as much as we would like, we just simply cannot say yes to everything that is requested of us. I work very hard, and I try to accomodate as many people as I can. However, there are times when it just is not possible to do that. I usually find that a straightforward, direct approach works best for me. "Joe, you know that I always try to help whenever I can. Right now, I have so many projects on my desk that need my attention that there is no way I can do this for you. I am very sorry to do this to you, and I'd be glad to help you out in the future, if I can fit it in with my workload." It's hard for anyone to be angry when I state it this way. Also, because it is all TRUE! They do know that I work very hard and try to do whatever I can here. So, if I say that I cannot do it, they know that I am not just blowing them off. They appreciate my honesty and sincerity. This works best for me.
I also had one boss (I always work for multiple bosses) who needed everything right away. Well, I caught on to that pretty soon. The things weren't really emergencies, he just wanted them done right away so he could say they were done. So, whenever he brought something to me and asked me to do it ASAP, I'd always say, "I'll do the best I can. I have other jobs for other people that also need to be done. I'll get it done as soon as I can." And, I would do just that. I didn't push other work aside for his, but worked his in as quickly as I could. He came to appreciate that. We ended up with a wonderful working relationship, and I was very sad when he left.
I believe in being tactful and polite, but firm. For the most part, I have had only positive responses to this response.
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