CIO Power Politics: How to Say No Assertively

April 10, 2019

Contributor: Kasey Panetta

In this episode, Gartner analyst Tina Nunno describes how CIOs can say no to projects, without damaging relationships.

“How do I say no assertively without damaging relationships and minimize collateral damage?”

This is one of the most common questions Tina Nunno, Distinguished Vice President Analyst, Gartner receives during conversations with CIOs. The best way to respond is with an “Assertive No,” which allows you to say no, while expressing respect both for the request and the person making it.

Take quiz: Are you a "wolf" CIO?

In CIO Power Politics, Nunno shares her insights and advice from hundreds of client interactions on how to deliver an assertive no without unintended consequences.

This article has been updated from the original, published on February 9, 2017, to reflect new events, conditions or research.

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