INTHEBLACK September 2021 - Magazine - Page 67
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lots of questions about the nature of the work, and then
gives himself space to reflect, saying, “Leave it with me,
I’ll get back to you”.
On reporting back, Donnelly starts by stating his
existing commitments. “Sometimes, the conversation
ends there, because it’s clear I have too much on.” He
quantifies the time and resources needed to do the
extra work, how that will affect his other work, and
explores options such as extending the project
timeframe or being relieved of other duties.
Exploring these “grey zones” between a black and white
“Yes” or “No” response has been effective for Donnelly.
“I’ve never had a situation where I have been forced to
take on something I thought was too much,” he says.
Donnelly’s concerns that he might be perceived as
the “squeaky wheel” on the team and be overlooked for
future projects proved to be unfounded. “My manager
actually appreciated my clarity, analysis and strategic
thinking, which helped her own decision-making in the
process,” Donnelly says.
SPEAK FROM A PLACE OF EMPOWERMENT
The manner in which you express your concerns matters
as much as the words themselves, says Cynthia
Hickman, a Melbourne-based psychologist who sees
many professionals struggling with work pressure.
“Speak from a place of knowing your value and
competence, rather than from a place of weakness
or being a victim,” she advises.
In some work cultures, pushing back, even when done
tactfully, may not be well received. If you suspect that is
true for your work situation, Johnson advises taking
time to clarify whether you are willing to take the risk.
“Reflect on the reason why you want to say ‘No’ –
such as to protect your health, relationships, quality of
work or simply to stand up for yourself – and ask if this
intrinsic motivation is strong enough to potentially
jeopardise your work.”
Hickman and Johnson agree that even when their
clients don’t get what they want, many feel much better
for having spoken up.
to a
CPA Australia
podcast on
emotional
intelligence
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Preventing
Job Burnout
from the
CPA Library
intheblack.com September 2021 67