Request: Your boss asks you to supervise this season's intern — last seen with her feet up on a desk, iPod on, Gameboy in hand.

What you should say: "Wow, that's an interesting project. I'm really busy with the ABC assignment right now, so let me know if you want me to re-prioritize."

Why it works: "Asking your boss to prioritize tasks for you means you don't have to actually say the no word," author Patti Breitman says. If she tells you to just squeeze the new task in, then do it. But keep a list of all the extra work you've done — for your next review.

Why you shouldn't feel guilty: You really do have enough work to do as it is.

How to avoid the situation in the future: If extra tasks keep getting dumped on your desk, ask your boss for a meeting. Explain that the added assignments are making it hard to do your primary job properly. Ask if she wants to review your job description (and renegotiate your salary while she's at it).