How can I explain to my boss that a deadline is unrealistic without sounding lazy? - Comparably | Comparably

How can I explain to my boss that a deadline is unrealistic without sounding lazy?

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7 Answers

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    Top Employee Response

    You will have to come up with an action plan. Without one, it will come across as reluctant.

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    As long as you’re communicating with your boss they should have an understanding of your job duties and description. If they’re expecting something more communicate the reasons why it cannot be done and a timeline as far as when you can complete this assignment.

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    Have all the details of why this is unrealistic in place. I would suggest saying do you think this is something that is 100% realistic.

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    Document the tasks needed to accomplish it and the obstacles that can occur.

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    The truth is the best policy as long as you are rational without being emotional.

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    Detail the effort required and in order to not provide a subpar response indicate the timeframe needed.

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    with facts... 1. Break the job down into small reasonable tasks. 2. Apply a time frame to each task. 3. Total up the estimates, making a range of times to complete the entire job. 4. Engage your boss with your tasks and their estimated times, a. ask him if any of the particular time ranges look wrong. b. ask him if the totaled times look about right for the task. c. ask for any advice on trying to complete this job in the deadline you have been given.