As an accounting and finance professional, your role sometimes involves additional work, longer hours, and tasks not included in your job description. Since you want to be seen as a team player, you go above and beyond expectations to help your team perform its best. However, you need to keep an eye on how much additional work you take on. If the number of tasks begins to feel too stressful or unfair, you need to say “no” in a way that still conveys you are a team player.

Discover four ways to say “no” and still be viewed as a team player.

Set Boundaries

Turn down a request if you feel it unreasonably compromises your relationships and family life. For instance, if a colleague calls on a Sunday afternoon and asks you to send a document right away, politely let them know that you are spending time with your family. Suggest a time when you can send the document, such as first thing in the morning. Or, mention the name of someone else your coworker can call about the document. Asking for either a compromise or a different solution sets a boundary while showing commitment to your work and team.

Consider Your Abilities

Let your manager or coworker know if a task is outside the scope of your work or expertise. It could cost a significant amount of time and money if you try to do something you are not qualified for. Someone may have to take over and redo things if they do not turn out as desired.

Monitor Your Workload

Keep in mind that regularly agreeing to requests can result in carrying a significantly larger share of the workload than your teammates. This is especially true if a colleague or manager often asks you for a favor. You easily can become overburdened, which may result in missing deadlines, producing lower quality work, and experiencing burnout. The added stress can lead to health problems as well. To avoid these issues, let the person know that you understand the importance of what they are asking. Show that you want success just as much as they do. Then, clarify why you cannot fulfill the request. Patiently talk with the person so they understand and respect your decision.

Give a Positive No

Present your “no” in a positive way. Start by showing appreciation for the person’s request. Next, positively state what your priority is right now and why it is interesting, important, or meaningful to you. Then, explain what this means and why you cannot do what you are being asked to. Finally, apologize. Suggest an alternative, such as another person who might be able to help.

Find Your Next Accounting and Finance Role

When you need to find your next accounting and finance role in Western Canada, turn to Mercer Bradley. We help you find a position you love where you are a valued member of the team. Check out our job board today.