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As an engineer, there\u2019s one phrase I absolutely never want to use. That phrase is \u201cIt\u2019s impossible.\u201d<\/p>\n
How do you handle unreasonable requests? A request that seems unreasonable to us may actually be what the other person wants.<\/p>\n
I understand the urge to simply say, \u201cIt\u2019s impossible,\u201d but I believe that saying \u201cIt\u2019s impossible\u201d without explaining why can lead to misunderstandings and make your technical skills appear less capable.<\/p>\n
For example, if an owner asks, \u201cCan you replace this door with a glass one?\u201d I think it\u2019s not quite right for a technician to immediately reply, \u201cThat\u2019s not possible.\u201d<\/p>\n
I\u2019m sure there must be a reason why something is \u201cimpossible,\u201d right? I think a true technical expert is someone who, even when there\u2019s a reason, presents options by saying, \u201cIt would be possible if we met these conditions\u2014what would you like to do?\u201d<\/p>\n
For example, even if you think it\u2019s impossible\u2014such as when you\u2019re told, \u201cThe budget will increase significantly,\u201d \u201cStructural reinforcement is needed, so we\u2019ll have to tear it down,\u201d or \u201cThe construction schedule will be extended\u201d\u2014you should clearly explain the reasons and be supportive.<\/p>\n
The key here is to accurately grasp the \u201cintent\u201d or \u201cpurpose\u201d behind the other person\u2019s request. When someone says, \u201cI want to use glass,\u201d there may be reasons behind that request, such as improving visibility or aesthetics, or concerns about safety.<\/p>\n
I believe that, rather than simply brushing it off by saying, \u201cI can\u2019t do that,\u201d and ignoring the issue, a willingness to consider whether there might be another approach that better suits the objective is what builds trust.<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s consider the request, \u201cI\u2019d like this piece of furniture to float 5 centimeters above the ground,\u201d as an example. While only a magician could actually make furniture float, it might be possible to make it appear as if it\u2019s floating. By presenting realistic alternatives\u2014such as \u201csuspending it from above\u201d or \u201cusing transparent supports\u201d\u2014you can create a positive impression.<\/p>\n