Workplace Challenges

How to say no while remaining committed

Your boss would like you to be more adaptable and help out in areas that are not yours in this period of cut-backs? Don’t hesitate to give him a hand, but make sure to respect your capacities and skills.

by Carole Boulé
[ 2009-05-19 ]

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In times of crisis, some workers are willing to do more than their usual share. But preventing breakdown by negotiating the extra hours with their boss is an initiative they shouldn’t pass by.

Clarify your expectations

Sit down with your employer to identify the extra tasks you will have to accomplish. Be sure to understand their exact nature before taking on the responsibility.

If you feel reluctant about doing a specific task, clearly express your doubts to your boss. “Your employer will be in better position to supervise you or work around your lack of knowledge in a specific field, if necessary”, points out Sylvie Lepage, a Human Resources adviser, and founder and President of Innovation RH.

Set your limits

Companies can undergo tough times for a short period, but sometimes, the crisis lasts longer than predicted. “The employee has to take responsibility of managing his own energy.


Providing extra help and making double shifts is possible for a week, but can someone do that for months on end?”, asks Joëlle Charpentier, a registered Human Resources adviser for the Maletto and associés firm.

To avoid burnout, ask your employer to reevaluate the situation on a regular basis (every week or two weeks) and readjust your workload according to your capacities.

Turn the situation to your advantage

“Getting new tasks is a great opportunity to develop your versatility and show off new skills to your employer”, feels Sylvie Lepage.

“For example, some people are stronger when a crisis strikes and take on more leadership in their team”, observes Mrs Charpentier. “They demonstrate their strength through their skills or by a dynamic attitude with their colleagues.” By enhancing these qualities, you could move up in the company when the crisis is over.



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