Deferral

Deferral is actually making a decision. Usually the decision means “no”.

Deferral is often used as a passive aggressive way to say “no”. Not returning calls, emails or continually saying, “we need more information” are how deferral manifests itself in organizations and personal lives.

The courageous leader learns to say “no” without deferring. Clearly, concisely, respectfully and refusing to play the deferral game.