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This question is about careers.
How to tell your boss you can't do something
To tell your boss you can't do something, list reasons, identify risks and consequences, and give your boss evidence that backs up your reasoning. Here are some details on these steps and others you can take to tell your boss you can't do something:
Make a list of reasons. First, list why you think you can't do the specific task, assignment, project, or another kind of request your boss asks you.
You should seek to create a document, email, or presentation containing your reasons and all the information we'll discuss. For your reasons, you might include items like:
The complexity of the task, project, or assignment
The amount of work involved
It is impossible due to your current workload
If there is a need for any specialized expertise, skills, or knowledge that you don't have
Try to keep your list of reasons concise. A good idea is to create a numbered or bullet-point list. You might order this list in terms of priority.
Identify risks and consequences. Next, you should include any potential risks or consequences related to you having to do the request from your boss. This should not detract from your abilities but highlight how having this done by you could result in bad outcomes.
Give your boss evidence that backs up your reasoning. You should try to provide your boss with evidence or data that supports your argument.
This might include data gleaned from similar completed projects, feedback from coworkers who have had similar assignments, or research you cite concerning best practices for completing the work or request.
Propose and outline alternative options. Now, you should propose alternative options in a new section of your document. This shows that you are not simply trying to get out of the work but being proactive in finding solutions.
Schedule a meeting with your boss. Schedule a meeting with your boss to give them this presentation or review your document if possible.
An in-person approach will likely have a better chance of granting your request. After you meet with your boss, if you still don't have a firm answer, you should email them the document so they can review it again.
Apologize. Remember to remain respectful and professional in this interaction with your boss. You should apologize for the inconvenience. This shows you understand how this affects your work, project, team, or all of the above.
Ask for guidance. You should also try to ask for guidance from your boss concerning this matter. If you present your case professionally, your boss might surprise you and be instrumental in helping you find a solution to the problem. Be honest with them, but also ask about the steps you can take to resolve the issue.
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