Not Yet

Have you ever been asked whether you had a particular skill, and struggled to answer when the answer is clearly "no"?

While no one appreciates spin, there are a number of ways to answer, each with a unique nuance:

Answer: Yes: If you are part of the Fake it 'til you make it school of thought, go right ahead and answer "yes". For everyone else, this is lying; when you are found out, your credibility takes a hit, you could be fired, or worse.

Answer: Somewhat Related: This approach acknowledges that you have some experience in a related field, or at least some theoretical knowledge of the area. If this is your answer, then you must clarify what you mean with examples and evidence.

Answer: No: This direct approach speaks to your honesty and integrity. Yet, it is so absolute that it doesn't acknowledge any of your complementary skills, ability to learn, or your future intentions.

Answer: Not Yet: In this approach, you acknowledge that you don't have a particular skill, but provide evidence that you have the skills and the motivation to learn it.

Of course, how you answer also depends on the context, and the strength of your relationship with the person asking the question. The better you know them, the more nuanced your answer can be. If they don't know you well, the more nuanced your answer, the more it sounds like bad spin.

This week's action item: If you answered Not Yet to anyone during the last few weeks, commit to actually start the activity that will allow you to anwer Yes. Not only will you feel better about completing your commitment, but you will be improving your value at the same time.

Randall Craig is an expert on Career Planning, Work-Life Balance, and Networking; to find out how his workshops, webinars, and keynotes can help your team or add to your event, contact him through www.PersonalBalanceSheet.com, or by email at editor@ptadvisors.com.

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Comments or questions? let us know: editor@ptadvisors.com

Copyright © 2009 Knowledge to Action Press and Randall Craig. All rights reserved.
Publication Date: April 7, 2009