Of course it's unbelievably frustrating when your supervisor gives you an ‘extra project’ at the exact same time that you are juggling 7 different deadlines and your inbox is exploding. But even then, or maybe precisely at those exact moments, these are the things you should never ever say.
- That is not a part of my job description
This will automatically lead to a disqualification. It oozes a lack of input and work ethic so when it's promotion season, don't be surprised when you're supervisor considers everyone but you.
What you can say
I am really flattered that you entrust me with this task. How about you and I have a look at how I can schedule this into my agenda so that I have the time to properly give it the attention it deserves since I have quite a few deadlines. Would you be okay if I were to outsource a few current ongoing projects?
- It's unfair
Do you remember that scene from The Devil Wears Prada where Emily (who had just been hit by a car and had nestled into a hospital bed) heard that Andrea (Andrea, ANDREA) was going to fashion week instead of her? “It's so unfair.” No one ever said life was going to be any fun. Or fair. So show them why you think you should get to work on that really cool project. Ask your boss (what a horrible word, but then again a ‘supervisor’ sounds so dull) what her (or his) determining factors were for the specific task and then share your thoughts on the matter in the most concrete and constructive manner.
- That's how we always do it
Well if that ain't one hell of an argument then I don't know what is. Dude, wake up. I'm kidding. Clearly. Show them you're up and adaptable for change and ask how they plan to improve the process and make things more efficient and cost effective. Just because you are used to doing things a specific way does not mean it's the best way.
- I'll give it a try
When someone said this to me back in my Marie Claire days, my answer would always be: “Okay, we'll once the issue is out I will post a post-it on every copy with the following message: we gave it a shot but it didn't work out, sorry.” You aren't going to try it, you are going to solve it. Whatever it takes.
- I didn't do it
The epitome of being collegial right here. And you give off the general impression that all you care about is yourself and your own tasks. I completely understand that you don't want people to blame you for making a mistake, but that's something they'll figure out in due time. Indicate that you too feel horrible, that you're going to fix the situation first and then figure out how it could have happened and more importantly, how to avoid it in the future. That way you not only show that it wasn't your mistake, but that you are a team player with a vision to avoid these kinds of situations.
- I can't
It's impossible to be capable of doing absolutely everything. There are more things I can't do than things I can, but I have surrounded myself with the right group of people to help me out. Just make sure you know the things you aren't great at. That way you can outsource things when necessary and you can focus on the things you are good at. Wanna bet your boss agrees?
