June 14, 2023

Different ways for saying no at work

in glorious, professional English

Saying no at work is awkward. This goes for all levels of English-speakers, and probably in all languages. So when your co-worker asks you to add another task to your list, or take on a massive project, or participate in a useless meeting, how can you say “no”?

Firstly: don’t say exactly what is on your mind (if your inner thoughts are similar to mine, you’d probably lose your job the minute you voiced them to a colleague). Instead, for beautiful, harmonious professionalism, transform what you WANT to say, into what you SHOULD say. Here are 6 examples.

1. NO WAY, I’ve got too many tasks

Probably the most common reason for saying no at work is when you’re asked to do more work than is humanly possible. Before you respond with the “NO WAY!” sentence above, try an assertive response like: 

Sorry, but I can’t take on more work at the moment. I’m sure you understand.

The best thing is, the expression “I’m sure you understand” is vague, it calls for the other person to show empathy, and is basically very difficult to contest. A winner.

2. ABSOLUTELY NOT, you’re asking too late

Last-minute demands are irritating, but instead of responding with the line above, say this: 

Due to timing, I would be unable to give this task the proper attention it deserves. I’m sure you understand. 

Here you’re using the hypothetical “would” to show that there is not a real chance of this happening with such short notice. Not. A. Chance.

“Thanks for thinking of me, but I think we can find a better fit for this particular project. “

3. NO. NO. NO. I’m not working outside my scheduled hours

16.59 on a Friday afternoon and a colleague starts making demands about things that need to be completed “urgently”. Sound familiar? Instead of working during your personal time, reply with this:

I’m happy to discuss this on Monday when I return to the office. 

Now close your laptop and enjoy the weekend.

4. Nahhhh…I don’t know how to do that

An honest reason for saying no at work is when you really don’t have a clue about the task in question! A smart way to phrase that is: 

Thanks for thinking of me, but I think we can find a better fit for this particular role/task/project. 

“A better fit” = someone else (preferably someone you don’t like). 

person editing an email talktips

5. NOT NOW, ask me later when I’m free

Maybe you just need a little more time before you can agree to whatever is being asked of you . In that case, reply with: 

Another time might work. Let me get back to you. 

This shows that you are happy to comply…within reasonable time expectations.

6. NO…because no

Sometimes you just don’t want to. Giving your co-worker a vague answer will help you here, for example: 

Sorry, I can’t commit to that right now.

With no opening here for questions or follow-up, the message is short and clear: no no no.

But remember to say yes

 

While these expressions are great ways to turn people down, you will (unfortunately) need to say “yes” at some points, too. Your boss probably wouldn’t accept “another time might work” in the same way as your colleague. However, when used in an appropriate context, these expressions are definitely useful tools to set boundaries. Best of all, they are professional and cordial  – the perfect balance for saying no at work. 

 

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I train people to use English in a professional context. In my one-to-one sessions, online course and social media platforms, you’ll master tools to flourish in your English-speaking workplace. From job interviews to work meetings to presentations and more, you’ll prepare for professional challenges and speak with success.

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