11
How to Say No to Taking on More
by Rebecca Knight
Quick Takes
- Evaluate whether you have the desire and time to help
- Inquire if there are smaller ways to pitch in
- Practice saying “no” out loud
- Be kind but firm
- Be honest and make sure your “no” is understood
Editor’s Note: This article was written about politely and effectively saying “no” to taking on more work at work—and working parents need to have this skill down cold. But these techniques are just as essential for declining some of the countless requests parents face from their children’s schools, sports, clubs, and activities. Whether it’s being asked to be treasurer of the parent-teacher association, assistant coaching your toddler’s soccer team, or delivering brownies to yet another ...
Get HBR Working Parents Series Collection (3 Books) (HBR Working Parents Series) now with the O’Reilly learning platform.
O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.
