全通翻譯/翻譯社

When “No” Is the Only Answer

Most of us want to be amenable at work, but we're often put in positions where we want to say “no.” Indeed, sometimes it's the only real option. When refusing a request, diplomacy is important, especially when dealing with managers. Here are some tips on how to give your boss a polite brush-off.

● Spell Out Your Priorities
Rather than giving a flat “no,” outline the tasks you are currently preoccupied with. Don't just say that you're too busy. Give specific examples, and make it clear that you are willing to help but there are other things that need completing. You might even ask your superior for suggestions about prioritizing.

● Offer Alternatives
In refusing a request, try to provide another option. You can tell the person that although you are unable to help in this particular case, you are more than willing to offer your services elsewhere.

● Face the Music 
Don't hide behind e-mails. Written messages do not convey tone and can be misconstrued. If you cannot do something, make sure you tell your manager in person to avoid misunderstandings.

● Provide a Substitute
Perhaps someone else has the time and the ability to do the task at hand. You'll always need to check with the person first, but putting forward the name of a junior colleague who might benefit from the exposure is an option.

說「不」的藝術

我們大多數人在工作時都願意表現順從的一面，但我們卻常身處在想要說「不」的情境中。確實，有時說「不」是唯一真正的選擇。在拒絕要求時，交際手腕是相當重要的，特別是和經理主管應對時。以下有一些禮貌拒絕老闆要求的訣竅。

● 詳加說明你的優先順序
與其斷然說「不」，先概述你目前正忙著處理的工作事項。別只是說你很忙。舉出明確的例子，並清楚表明你很願意幫忙，只是有其他事情得先完成。你甚至可能向上司請益優先處理的順序。

● 提供替代方案
拒絕要求時，試著提供另一個選擇。你可以告訴對方：雖然你沒辦法在此特別情況下提供協助，但你非常樂意在其他地方效勞。

● 面對現實
別太依賴電子郵件。書面訊息無法傳達語氣，也可能被曲解。如果你有什麼事無法辦到，確定你有當面告知主管以避免誤會。

● 提供代理人選
或許其他人有時間和能力去進行這份當下就得處理的任務。你總是要向當事人先確認好，不過推薦後輩同事也是個不錯的選擇，他有可能因為接觸到這個機會而受惠。 

資料來源：biz 互動英語電子報