Whether it's rejecting a new direction, declining a meeting, or simply saying "we can't take on any more work," saying "no" to a boss, senior executive or client can be a daunting task.

But for managers (and employees), it's an important skill to master. Your "yes" might overburden your team, or complicate an existing plan. And if you're known for always saying "yes," then modelling potentially dangerous people-pleasing tendencies to your own team - how will they ever know to push back on you if you can't push back on your boss? 

Fear not — it is a skill you can master, and on the latest episode of Manage This!, we chatted with Nancy Vonk, co-founder of Swim, a leadership consultancy; author of Darling, You Can't Do Both, and Other Noise to Ignore on Your Way Up; and Rotman Judy Project alumna. She offers some magic words and practical tips on how to say "no," and some considerations for when your boss simply won't take no for an answer. 

Give it a watch above, and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel and the Rotman Insights Hub so you never miss a new episode.  

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