How to Say NO

Saying no is perhaps the most important skill that a junior prof can learn. Women in particular have a harder time drawing professional boundaries. Learning to do so fast is essential. The book or article takes priority over Everything Else.

How not to say no:

1. Scream and run away
2. Drop drink in senior prof's lap
3. Apologize profusely
4. Say "Maybe"
5. Glare

Helpful strategies for honing your "No" Skills:

1. Call on associate prof to aid in defense.
2. Arrive with fictional child. If this does not work, use dog, dying grandmother, house fire, etc.
3. Invite colleagues generally to participate in the successful acquisition of your tenure.
4. Don't feel guilty under any circumstances
5. Practice smiling while saying No in front of mirror
6. Practice firm No with dog, fictional child, like-minded juniorprof
7. Remember that your book or article isn't a "personal" thing. This is your job.

Tell us about your experiences saying No.