How to say NO to your boss professionally

In the workplace, the ability to say NO assertively and professionally is a crucial skill that is often overlooked. Saying “yes” to everything your boss asks may seem like a way to earn points and show your commitment, but in reality, doing so can have negative effects on your well-being and productivity. Learning to set clear boundaries, manage your priorities, and protect your professional value are far more powerful skills than simply accepting everything assigned to you.

In this article, we will explore 8 ways to say NO to your boss without losing credibility or harming the work relationship. Learning to say “no” with intelligence, empathy, and assertiveness not only helps you gain more control over your workday but also strengthens your professional stance.

1. Communicate your overload

One of the first steps to effectively managing your tasks is recognizing when you have too much on your plate. Make it clear that you’re working on multiple responsibilities, and while you’re committed, it’s also important to prioritize urgent tasks.

Response:

“I’m at my capacity right now, but I can prioritize the most urgent tasks.”

It’s not about rejecting the work, but ensuring you can fulfill everything in the best possible way. It also shows you’re aware of your capabilities and helps set healthy boundaries.

2. Non-related tasks

It’s important to reject tasks that aren’t aligned with your role or responsibilities. You don’t have to do everything asked if it’s not within your competencies or the area where you add value.

Response:

“This is outside of my current responsibilities. Let’s discuss how I can contribute in a way that adds value.”

This not only helps you stay focused but also reminds your boss where you can be more effective and how your time can be better utilized.

3. Ask for support

If you’re assigned a task that’s particularly complex or that you can’t complete adequately due to your workload, ask for additional resources. This helps ensure the task is done better and also shows your commitment to the quality of your work.

Response:

“Can we bring in extra help to ensure this is done well?”

In this case, you’re proposing a viable solution and showing proactivity. Collaboration is key to workplace efficiency.

4. Communicate honestly

Honesty is key to building a trusting relationship with your boss. Sometimes, taking on more responsibilities can lower the quality of your work. It’s important to be transparent about your limits.

Response:

“I want to be honest: If I take this on now, I won’t be able to give it the attention it deserves.”

Being direct and honest allows your boss to understand your situation and respect you for being authentic. This strengthens the relationship, as it’s based on mutual trust.

5. Offer solutions

When you say NO to something, it’s not just about rejecting it, but proposing alternatives that allow things to keep moving without the work getting stuck.

Response:

“What if we try something to keep everything moving smoothly?”

This approach not only shows your willingness but also your creativity in finding solutions that benefit the team and maintain productivity.

6. Reprioritize tasks

Sometimes, it’s not about rejecting a task, but reorganizing your priorities to include it more efficiently. When your boss asks for something new, you can ask for guidance on which tasks should take priority.

Response:

“Given my current workload, which project should take priority?”

This shows that you’re responsible and know how to manage your tasks efficiently, while also being willing to collaborate wherever needed.

7. Frequent overtimeasks

Overtime can be a delicate subject. While there are times when extra effort is necessary, when overtime becomes the norm, it’s important to set boundaries to avoid burnout.

Response:

“I’m willing to help, but overtime is affecting my work-life balance.”

This shows that you care about your well-being and are aware of the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life.

8. Ask for help in prioritizing

Sometimes, you may feel overwhelmed by all the tasks you have to complete. In this case, involve your boss in reorganizing your priorities. This not only keeps your boss informed of your workload but also shows your willingness to get the work done efficiently.

Response:

“What tasks can I move around to focus on this new task?”

This response not only shows that you’re committed to your responsibilities but also reinforces the idea that you work strategically, not reactively.

The importance of learning to say NO in the professional world

Saying NO is a skill that needs to be learned and perfected. It’s not about being negative, but managing your priorities in a way that allows you to maintain a high level of performance without compromising your health or productivity. This article from Harvard Business Review delves into how to handle this skill in the workplace and provides practical advice on setting effective boundaries without damaging your relationship with your boss.

In this regard, acquiring coaching and mindfulness skills can be very helpful. ENEB’s Master’s in Coaching and Mindfulness, for example, offers valuable tools to improve emotional management, enhance productivity, and learn to say NO assertively. This type of training helps you approach pressure situations with calm and clarity.

Another relevant program is the Master’s in Team Management and Leadership, which teaches you to lead effectively, manage teams, and set healthy boundaries. Additionally, the Master’s in HR and Talent Management is ideal if you want to delve into best practices for managing human talent and understanding the importance of interpersonal skills in the workplace.

AI tools to find your ideal job

In 2025, artificial intelligence (AI) is not only transforming the way we work but also how we search for jobs. With more than half of knowledge workers using generative AI tools weekly, the job market is undergoing a true technological revolution. This technology has arrived to optimize and accelerate the job search process, making applications more personalized and effective.

From creating CVs to preparing for interviews, AI tools are taking your job search to the next level. In this article, we’ll explore how you can use these powerful tools to improve your job search in 2025 and maximize your career opportunities.

The rise of AI in job search

According to a recent study by Asana’s Work Innovation Lab in collaboration with Anthropic, the use of generative AI by knowledge workers increased by 44% in just nine months during 2024. This growth has led to higher productivity, with 89% of daily AI users reporting increased productivity, compared to 39% of occasional users.

Key study data:

  • 31% of jobs could be automated with AI.
  • Daily AI users experience an 89% increase in productivity.
  • AI adoption in the workplace is rising, with more AI applications per employee.

This rise in AI usage has not only transformed daily work functions but has also changed the way recruiters and companies manage hiring. Today, AI tools are essential for both candidates and recruiters, optimizing every aspect of the recruitment process.

How AI is transforming the job search

AI tools are transforming the job search process in innovative and fast ways. No longer do you have to spend hours crafting CVs or cover letters. AI can do it for you, faster and more accurately. Here’s how AI can enhance your job search:

1. Optimizing your CV and cover letter

With tools like ChatGPT or Perplexity, you can compare your CV with the job listing and quickly adjust your profile to highlight relevant skills and experiences. You can also generate personalized cover letters that add context to your CV, which can make a difference for many recruiters.

Benefits of using AI for CV optimization:

  1. Saves time by tailoring your applications for each position.
  2. Increases the chances of being selected with better alignment with the job description.
  3. Improves the quality of language and corrects grammatical errors.

2. Job application automation

An impressive example of how AI is changing the job search is a Reddit user who automated applications to 1,000 jobs, landing 50 interviews in just one month. This system used customized CVs and cover letters based on each job description, increasing the chances of being selected.

3. Efficient communication with recruiters

If you’ve ever considered reaching out to a recruiter on LinkedIn or sending an email to a hiring manager, AI tools like Claude can help you write effective and well-structured messages. This assistance allows you to be more direct and persuasive in your communications.

4. Interview preparation

AI can also help you prepare for interviews by generating mock questions based on the role you’re applying for. You can practice your responses and improve your skills to be ready when the interview time arrives.

Examples of how AI can help with interviews:

  • Generate typical questions based on the role you’re applying for.
  • Practice responses using AI to boost your confidence.
  • Research the company and its values to be well-informed.

Why AI is crucial in the job search

AI is not only optimizing how we apply for jobs, but it is also transforming the recruitment process. Companies are using generative AI to automatically filter applications, source candidates, and even conduct virtual interviews, though with mixed results.

Advantages of using AI for job search:

  • Efficiency: Handles repetitive tasks like CV or cover letter creation in minutes.
  • Personalization: Creates job-specific documents tailored to each job posting.
  • Time optimization: Speeds up the entire job search process, from applications to interviews.

The future of AI in job search

Although only 31% of companies have a formal AI strategy, the trend continues to grow. Workers are adopting ‘BYOAI’ (Bring Your Own AI to Work) tools, using these solutions to improve their productivity both at work and in personal life.

As more companies begin incorporating AI into their recruitment strategies, candidates will also be able to take advantage of the tools available to maximize their career opportunities. The key is to understand how to apply AI solutions smartly to get the most benefit from your job search.

Conclusion: AI as a job search ally

Generative AI tools are changing the way we search for jobs, providing competitive advantages and significant improvements in productivity. From automating applications to preparing for interviews, AI can optimize every aspect of the job search process. If you’re looking to advance in your career, leveraging AI technology in your job search strategy can be an excellent way to stand out among candidates.

If you want to improve your skills and learn how to apply artificial intelligence in your field of work, we invite you to enroll in ENEB’s Master in Business Artificial Intelligence, where you can acquire the necessary skills to excel in the digital business world.

Nvidia overtakes Microsoft as the world’s most valuable company

In an impressive move on the financial markets, Nvidia has managed to overtake Microsoft to become the world’s most valuable company, with a market capitalization reaching $3.5 trillion.

This milestone marks a new chapter for the semiconductor and artificial intelligence (AI) giant, which has achieved exceptional growth, backed by the boom in its products and growing demand in the AI sector. In this article, we will look at how Nvidia has achieved this rise and what it means for the future of the technology market.

The meteoric rise of Nvidia

For years now, Nvidia has been positioning itself as one of the key players in the technology sector, especially with its artificial intelligence (AI) chips. However, it was its recent success in AI that allowed it to dethrone Microsoft. The last time Nvidia reached the top spot in the ranking of most valuable companies was in January 2025, and its recent surge in the value of its shares, which rose 3% on Tuesday, allowed it to overtake Microsoft, reaching a market capitalization of $3.444 trillion. By comparison, Microsoft stood at $3.441 trillion.

This spectacular increase is not fortuitous. Nvidia’s Q1 2025 financial results far exceeded Wall Street expectations, with revenue of $44.06 billion, a 69% year-over-year increase. Demand for its products, especially in the AI space, has been a key factor in this success.

Jensen Huang’s leadership and commitment to artificial intelligence

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has played a key role in this rise. His strategic vision has enabled the company to position itself as a leader in AI chip development, giving it a decisive competitive advantage in the market. Huang has been very clear about his ambitions, highlighting that China has become one of the most important markets for AI and that U.S. export control policies are affecting its ability to compete globally. In his remarks, Huang stressed that China is home to a large portion of the world’s AI talent, making control of the Chinese market essential for any technology company.

Despite challenges, such as the recent loss of $8 billion in revenue due to export restrictions imposed by the Trump administration, Nvidia remains optimistic. Investors have remained confident about the company’s future, with strong demand for its products in the artificial intelligence sector.

The impact of artificial intelligence and semiconductors on the marketplace

Nvidia’s rise reflects a broader trend in the technology market, in which semiconductor chips and artificial intelligence are gaining increasing relevance. Companies around the world are investing in AI-based solutions to improve their processes and products, which has led to increased demand for high-performance semiconductors, such as those that Nvidia produces.

This growth has also boosted the VanEck Semiconductor ETF, which saw a 2% gain recently, and other semiconductor companies such as Micron Technology, which saw upside of as much as 4%. Nvidia, in particular, has led this sector, becoming the main beneficiary of the AI boom.

What does it mean for the future of Nvidia and the market?

Nvidia’s recent surpassing of Microsoft in the ranking of most valuable companies not only reflects the company’s leadership in the semiconductor market, but also its strategic positioning in the artificial intelligence space. As AI technologies continue to transform entire industries, Nvidia is uniquely positioned to capitalize on this trend.

The AI chip market is booming, and companies like Nvidia are well positioned to lead in this field for years to come. If demand for AI-based solutions continues to grow at the current rate, we are likely to see further growth in market value for companies like Nvidia, cementing its place as one of the most influential companies in the world.

Conclusion: A bright future for Nvidia

Nvidia’s overtaking of Microsoft marks an important milestone in the technology industry. The company has not only demonstrated its dominance in the semiconductor market, but has also managed to ride the wave of innovation that is rocking the world of artificial intelligence. With a clear vision for the future under the leadership of Jensen Huang, Nvidia is poised to remain a key player in the global market.

As AI becomes a key growth driver for the technology sector, Nvidia is well positioned to continue to lead this change. Investors continue to bet on its success, and with a market capitalization approaching $3.5 trillion, the company could be poised to reach new heights in the coming years.

If you want to stay on top of the latest trends in technology and how companies are leading innovation, we invite you to explore more about how emerging technologies are transforming the business world in our Global MBA programs. These hands-on programs provide you with the tools you need to stand out in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

How Warren Buffett is preparing for retirement: a theatrical succession

Warren Buffett, known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” has been a key figure in the investment world for more than six decades. At 94, the legendary investor has decided to step back, handing over the reins of Berkshire Hathaway to his designated successor, Greg Abel. This decision marks the end of an era, but also reflects his meticulous planning to ensure that Berkshire Hathaway’s legacy will endure well beyond his leadership.

Throughout his career, Buffett has built Berkshire Hathaway into one of the most powerful and valuable companies in the world. His meticulously planned succession strategy reveals the importance of foresight in business and corporate legacy. In this article, we will explore how Warren Buffett is preparing for retirement through a carefully designed succession approach that could be a model for many companies to follow.

The transition of power: the end of an era

For more than 60 years, Warren Buffett has been the mastermind behind the growth and success of Berkshire Hathaway. Under his leadership, the company went from a dying textile company to a publicly traded conglomerate with a market value of more than $1 trillion. But, like all great leaders, Buffett knew his reign would not last forever. As time passed, the need to plan for a transition became more urgent.

In May 2025, Buffett announced that he would step down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway at the end of that year. This leadership change marks the end of an era for the conglomerate and the preparation for a new era under Greg Abel, who will take over as CEO.

The choice of Greg Abel as successor

The selection of Greg Abel as successor has been one of the most talked about in recent years. Buffett has not only relied on Abel for his experience, but also for his ability to navigate the complex challenges facing a company of Berkshire Hathaway’s magnitude. During the 2024 annual shareholder meeting, Buffett noted that Abel had demonstrated a keen ability to make crucial decisions at key moments, alluding to his own partner Charlie Munger, who passed away in 2023.

Buffett has made it clear that Abel is not only a competent successor, but possesses a strategic vision that can lead Berkshire Hathaway into a bright future, while keeping the integrity and spirit of the company intact. This step into retirement is not just a leadership change, but an organized and well-thought-out transition model.

The importance of proper succession planning

Succession planning has been a priority for Buffett in his final years of leadership. According to Lawrence Cunningham, director of the Weinberg Center on Corporate Governance, Berkshire Hathaway has provided an “exemplary model” of how to conduct succession at a company led by an iconic CEO. The clarity with which Buffett has prepared both his team and his shareholders for this change is a testament to his dedication and long-term vision.

Buffett has not only prepared Greg Abel, but also the company structure and shareholders to make the transition as smooth as possible. This planning includes managing his personal stake in the company, which will be transferred to a trust to avoid any negative impact on the future of Berkshire Hathaway once he is gone.

Clearing the way: accumulating cash reserves

One of Buffett’s most strategic moves has been the accumulation of an impressive cash reserve. Berkshire Hathaway currently holds about $348 billion in cash, which puts the company in an enviable position to meet future challenges and take advantage of any opportunities that arise under Greg Abel’s leadership.

Buffett has clarified that this accumulation is not intended to make Abel “look good” or “sport a clean slate,” but rather a pragmatic approach to allow Abel to make decisions with greater freedom. In recent meetings, Buffett has mentioned that while he is scaling back on buying new investments, he is willing to take advantage of opportunities that present themselves at attractive prices. This approach also reflects a desire to leave enough capital available for the new CEO to make strategic decisions without the immediate pressure of finding new funds.

Protecting his legacy: a long-term succession

Buffett has made it clear that his legacy is not just about money, but about maintaining the integrity and mission of Berkshire Hathaway. In this regard, one of the most important aspects of his planning has been the fate of his stake in the company. Approximately 14% of Berkshire Hathaway’s shares, worth more than $150 billion, will be transferred to a trust managed by his children. The goal is to protect his fortune, prevent activist investors from being able to dismantle the conglomerate, and ensure that Berkshire Hathaway remains a cohesive and successful entity across generations.

Furthermore, Buffett’s approach has been clear: he has no intention of selling his shares before his passing, as he believes strongly in the future of the company under Greg Abel’s leadership. This approach is aligned with his view of Berkshire Hathaway as a “work of art” that should endure well beyond his lifetime.

Conclusion: Lessons for business leaders

Warren Buffett’s succession at Berkshire Hathaway is a clear example of how a company can successfully prepare for a transition of power. Strategic planning, selecting a suitable successor, accumulating cash reserves, and protecting personal legacy are just a few of the keys to the success of this transition.

For entrepreneurs and leaders looking to secure the future of their companies, Buffett’s approach offers valuable lessons. A well-planned succession not only ensures business continuity, but also protects the company’s legacy and guarantees its long-term success.

If you want to delve deeper into how to make strategic decisions that can secure the future of your business, we invite you to read this Business Insider article, which delves into the importance of succession planning and best business practices. On the other hand, if you are interested in improving your leadership skills and learning more about strategic management, you should check out our MBA program at ENEB. This online program will provide you with the necessary tools to face the challenges of the business world and prepare your own succession within your company.