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How to Gracefully Decline Extra Work

Many of us still working from home haven’t quite perfected the circus act of work, kids, pets, Zoom hangouts, and sleep. Without the distinct cues that once separated our daily grind, time and task seem to bleed together. This can lead to losing track of time, working off hours, and unwittingly throwing work-life balance to the wind. And let’s face it, not every factor is within your control. But one thing you can control is whether you choose to accept extra work that’s beyond your regular scope or that you just don’t have time to add to your plate. Your home office may be open all hours, but that doesn’t mean you have to sit in it at 2am.

Here’s how to decline work with a grace that won’t impact your next performance review.

Give a firm but sympathetic delivery

A snippy, flippant, or entitled “no” won’t do well for your professional image. (Remember, there’s a reason the task-giver came to you!) So when you decline work, follow up with an explanation why, and offer some kind words about the project and the task-giver. If the project is super important but you’re just too busy, your boss may rearrange your priorities to accommodate the work. But how else will your boss know this is necessary if you don’t say no first?

Make it about you

Own that “no”! This decision is about you and your priorities, so try saying, “Thanks for coming to me with this project, but I’m just too busy to take this on right now.” Stay away from finger-pointing statements like, “You always give me last-minute projects.” If you’ve consistently turned down one person, have a separate conversation about why you’ve had to turn down their requests.

Be honest and decisive

If you’re clear that you need to say no and why you need to say it, deliver the message quickly and decisively. Delay or hesitation will only confuse the issue and make you look wishy-washy, so be sure to think through what you want to say first. Finally, be sure to give valid reasons for saying no. Saying no might not hurt your career, but being caught in a lie sure will!

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