Lots of people do not like saying no, but this word is a part of our life. Therefore it is time to learn how to use it without feeling guilty. Allbusiness.com described a few tips how to say no.
1) Say no to now and yes to later
People don't like hearing the word no, but you can still say it without feeling guilty. Use the technique of saying no to now and yes to later. By doing this, you are letting the other person know that your current schedule will not allow you to help them. But they have the option to wait until you have enough time or they can find someone else. Direct them to someone you know and trust.
2) Say no unless the situation changes
Explain that your situation is so complicated just now you would not be the right person to help. You do not want to disappoint them. Offer to talk again in a few days to see if anything has changed. Express that you appreciate the fact a person came to you first.
3) Let me think about it and I will let you know
This approach is very common in sales. If a potential customer uses it, it means that a salesperson has not given him or her enough reasons to buy a product. On the other hand, it is one of the most effective ways to say no to somebody and not damage their ego. It is also a good way of not committing immediately to someone or something. Fast decisions are not usually the best ones.
4) I am not the right person to help you, but try Mr. X
If you know you wil not able to help, be straight and tell them. It is not worth saying you will do something you cannot do. It is better to send him or her to the right person. It is not a sign of weakness, on the contrary, it is a mark of strength.
5) I will keep you in our database
This phrase is mostly used with job seekers, but you can use it as well. It keeps the receiver hopeful about the future.
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