How to Politely Say 'No' to your Boss
How to Politely Say 'No' to Your Boss
It is important to be able to say 'no', to bosses.
Bosses tend to delegate tasks without reference to the amount of work already being attempted.
If we don't learn how to say 'no', then we are swamped by too much work. Consequently, we either fail the task, or we end up taking it home and working late into the night.
The right way to say No.
When you want to say 'No' to your supervisor or manager, then you need to do it in the right way:
- Be clear: "I am sorry: It is not possible".
- Give reasons: "Because right now I must finish this more important (named) task."
- Be positive. "If the situation changes, I will get back to you immediately"
At all costs, we must avoid sounding unhelpful or unwilling.
To be successful, we must be Clear, Rational and Positive.
Be Clear
Our message must be definite and unambiguous. If we say, "I will try to do it, but I can't guarantee that I will be able to do it today", then the boss will give us the job and our attempt at refusal fails.
To be clear we must say something like. "I am sorry, but it is not possible."
Be Rational
We must give good reasons WHY we cannot do the task. The reason is that we do not have the time, or that other tasks already on our list are more important, (or both).
Be Positive
We should assure our boss that if the situation changes, we will inform them, immediately.
Saying 'No' In Practice.
When we put these three principles together, they sound like this:
Boss: "I need you to pick-up a visitor from the train station this afternoon, at three. Would you do that for me?"
We say: "I am sorry, *boss name*, but it is not possible for me to do that." (Clarity)
"Because I must complete and submit this British Gas proposal before 5pm today. It is worth £100K. If the proposal is late, we won't win the business." (Reason)."
"If the situation changes, I will inform you, immediately." (Positive).
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Definition: Polite workplace refusal
In business, a polite workplace refusal is when you say no clearly, explain why you cannot do the task, keep a friendly tone that shows respect, and offer to help if your time frees up. It guards your workload while keeping good relations with your boss or co-worker.
Show CG4D Definition
- States the refusal in clear, direct words
- Gives a brief, logical reason linked to current priorities
- Uses positive, respectful language that preserves goodwill
- Offers future help if circumstances change
Article Summary
With 36% of UK staff doing too much work, say no to your boss by giving a clear refusal, a short reason tied to a more vital task, and a promise to check back if time frees up; this calm, positive plan guards your time and keeps trust intact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions that frequently get asked about this topic during our training sessions.
What is the best way to say no to my boss politely?
Do I always need to give reasons when I refuse extra work?
Will saying no put my job at risk?
How can I keep a positive tone after I decline a task?
What phrases show clarity when I set boundaries?
How do I decide which requests to refuse?
What should I do if my boss repeats the request after my no?
Thought of something that's not been answered? Ask Us Today!
Did You Know: Key Statistics
36% of UK staff say they often have too much work to finish within normal hours (CIPD Good Work Index 2023) 68% of global workers feel they lack the time or energy to do their job well (Microsoft Work Trend Index 2024)About the Author: Chris Farmer
Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years' experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.
Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.
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