Linda attended a course on saying no at work.
The trainer made everyone refuse small requests with confidence.
Linda improved so quickly that the trainer praised her.
Then he asked her to complete the feedback form.
Linda had agreed to too many jobs.
She watered the office plants, ordered birthday cards and knew which cupboard held the spare batteries nobody else could find.
Her manager sent her to a course called The Power of No.
The trainer began with simple practice.
Could you stay late?
No.
Could you take notes?
No.
Could you bring biscuits tomorrow?
The room became less confident.
Linda still said no.
The trainer moved to role play. He pretended to be a busy manager. Linda refused an extra report, a weekend call and responsibility for the office fish.
Excellent, he said. Clear, calm and firm.
At the end, he handed out feedback forms.
Please complete these before you leave.
Everyone reached for a pen.
Linda folded her arms.
No.
The trainer smiled.
Very good. Now please hand in a blank form.
Linda shook her head.
No.
The trainer looked at the clock.
Linda, the course has finished. You can go.
Linda stayed in her chair.
No.
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