Post by Jane K. Stimmler, contributing Women on Business writer
For those of us out here in the business world, the name of the game is seeking opportunities to get new clients and new assignments. We give and receive tips on how to build relationships, promote our accomplishments and communicate effectively – all with the end game of getting more and better work. For entrepreneurs, this translates into customers with new business. For corporate folks, it can mean broadening the scope of responsibility through a promotion or a new job.
But what if the prospective new client or assignment doesn’t feel right? Maybe you’re uncomfortable about it, but aren’t sure why. Is it ever appropriate to turn down work or a promotion? I believe, in the right circumstances, the answer is an emphatic “yes.” Don’t get me wrong – if you’re feeling a bit uneasy because you’re presented with a “stretch” assignment and your confidence is lacking, it is likely you’ll want to buck up and go for it. But there are times when saying “no” is not only the right thing to do, but also is positively empowering! In fact, as an entrepreneur, I’ve come to the view that while it’s flattering (not to mention potentially lucrative) when people want to do business with my firm – if it isn’t right for us – it’s usually a mistake to take it on.
There are a number of red flags which should put you on alert that the new client/assignment may not be a match. Here are some questions to think about:
Values: Is the mission of company or the individual incompatible with your goals? Does their product or service, or their way of conducting business make you uncomfortable? Is it inconsistent with your beliefs?
Expectations: Is it clear to you that unrealistic expectations have been set for the project or position? Do you feel that the budget or staffing is way off from where it should be – and is not subject to discussion?
Chemistry: Do you get a bad vibe from the person in charge or the environment – and cannot see yourself “fitting in” to the project or team? Do you feel a lack of respect for you or the work you do? Do you sense the prospective client or employer is being less than honest with you?
If you answer “yes” to these questions, it’s probably time to say “no” to the opportunity. Though it may be difficult to turn down a prospect – especially in this tough economy – by knowing yourself and making a sound and reasoned business decision, you are giving yourself the best chance of success.
Have you ever turned down an opportunity? Please share!
But what if the prospective new client or assignment doesn’t feel right? Maybe you’re uncomfortable about it, but aren’t sure why. Is it ever appropriate to turn down work or a promotion? I believe, in the right circumstances, the answer is an emphatic “yes.” Don’t get me wrong – if you’re feeling a bit uneasy because you’re presented with a “stretch” assignment and your confidence is lacking, it is likely you’ll want to buck up and go for it. But there are times when saying “no” is not only the right thing to do, but also is positively empowering! In fact, as an entrepreneur, I’ve come to the view that while it’s flattering (not to mention potentially lucrative) when people want to do business with my firm – if it isn’t right for us – it’s usually a mistake to take it on.
There are a number of red flags which should put you on alert that the new client/assignment may not be a match. Here are some questions to think about:
Values: Is the mission of company or the individual incompatible with your goals? Does their product or service, or their way of conducting business make you uncomfortable? Is it inconsistent with your beliefs?
Expectations: Is it clear to you that unrealistic expectations have been set for the project or position? Do you feel that the budget or staffing is way off from where it should be – and is not subject to discussion?
Chemistry: Do you get a bad vibe from the person in charge or the environment – and cannot see yourself “fitting in” to the project or team? Do you feel a lack of respect for you or the work you do? Do you sense the prospective client or employer is being less than honest with you?
If you answer “yes” to these questions, it’s probably time to say “no” to the opportunity. Though it may be difficult to turn down a prospect – especially in this tough economy – by knowing yourself and making a sound and reasoned business decision, you are giving yourself the best chance of success.
Have you ever turned down an opportunity? Please share!
Susan Gunelius
Susan Gunelius is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Women on Business. She is a 30-year veteran of the marketing field and has authored a dozen books about marketing, branding, and social media, including the highly popular Ultimate Guide to Email Marketing, 30-Minute Social Media Marketing, Content Marketing for Dummies, Blogging All-in-One for Dummies and Kick-ass Copywriting in 10 Easy Steps. Susan’s marketing-related content can be found on Entrepreneur.com, Forbes.com, MSNBC.com, BusinessWeek.com, and more. Susan is President & CEO of KeySplash Creative, Inc., a marketing communications company. She has worked in corporate marketing roles and through client relationships with AT&T, HSBC, Citibank, Intuit, The New York Times, Cox Communications, and many more large and small companies around the world. Susan also speaks about marketing, branding and social media at events around the world and is frequently interviewed by television, online, radio, and print media organizations about these topics. She holds an MBA in Management and Strategy and a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing and is a Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC).
Follow Me:
Jane, I completely agree with you! If something feels off, the appropriate answer is no. I’ve learned the hard way to trust my instincts when it comes to this.
The first reaction is to take it. You cannot afford to refuse paying customers or a better position. But that “something is not right” you feel will come back and you’ll either continue to feel uncomfortable for a long time or quit the job or fire the client anyway.