Some managers find it much easier to say no. Some managers say they like to say yes but say no because they don’t want to be seen as a push over. Some managers think it’s part of the role of management to say no as it emphasises who is the boss and in control. There are those who say no before you have finished explaining what you want to do. There are others who listen intently and then say no. And there are those who delay saying no by saying “I will think about it”. Clearly these managers need help to say yes (but not to often)
The HR manager who says no but would like to be more helpful. You can’t simply ignore policy and procedures just because they are inconvenient. You can’t get rid of a team member just because they are a pain in the ares. You can use the competence procedure if their performance consistently below the expected standard. And you have formerly raised this with them, set targets for improvement, monitored performance giving them a chance to improve. Yes this is a lengthy process. No there are no short cuts. And I should warn you to be careful what you say to this individual or else you might find yourself with a grievance for harassment and bullying.
The finance manager who doesn’t have a problem saying no but wishes people understood finances better.
No that would be an inappropriate use of the budget. No petty cash is not a budget. No you can not move money from the capital budget to the revenue budget. Because it’s against financial procedures. No I can’t support your expenditure proposals. Because I think your income projections are unrealistic.
The operational manager who is risk adverse and alludes to the blame culture and not sticking your head above the parapet.
I’m not saying this is a bad idea it’s just not standard practice. Have you check it out with HR? They advised against it but said it was your decision! What about finance did you run it past them? “Unorthodox” “Not sure the auditor would approve”. However if your determined to go ahead just be aware that this carries a risk.” Look before you do anything I suggest an email to the Assistant Director outlining the proposal, with the reservation given by HR and Finance and see if they will give the go ahead.
The manager who believes it is better to ask for forgiveness than permission. The one other managers dislike and senior managers applaud their initiative whilst considering them a lose cannon.
I always start by asking HR/ Finance for advice. I prefer to do this face to face much harder for people to say no than over the phone. Not that I ask can I do this or that. I explain the problem and we talk about options and strategies. It’s amazing how creative colleagues in HR and Finance can be once they realise that you will take responsibility and not turn round at a later date and say ,”HR told me to do it”.
