Managers must be able to say no: setting boundaries without causing undue offence

Team management is not just about delegating tasks and encouraging creativity, but also about setting boundaries. Saying yes can be comfortable and easy for you, the manager, because you may feel like you are fostering a sense of belonging and positivity among the team. But a true leader must also be able to say no – without feeling guilty or worrying about appearing prudish or distant. In fact, a well-chosen no can be far more beneficial to the team than a hasty yes. How to set boundaries, and when and how to say no?