Let’s face it, in todays world we all what we want when we want it. Those who can deliver are those we choose to do business with. Still, those who are able to address our needs, and provide answers that are helpful are those we can turn to and trust time and time again. There are so many other ways to say no to customer, prospect, co-worker, friend, anyone and avoid saying “no,” “I can’t,” “it’s not possible,” etc. 
Finding ways to avoid saying no will make you a valuable resource for those you interact with. I’m not saying you need to agree or say yes to everything, simply that there is a better way to say no.
When it comes to customers or prospective customers they may want something done immediately, but you’re team, you’re staff or your schedules simply won’t allow for it. What do you say to them, rather than, “No, we can’t do that today, sorry.” How about, “I wish I could do that for you today; we’ll do everything we can, but it’s most likely we’ll get it taken care of for you tomorrow. Would that be acceptable?”
Working with co-workers and others on your team, they may ask for help or leave something for you to do, when you simply aren’t able to get it done. Be honest, talk with them and let them know that you understand how important it is to get “it” done, and you really want to help. Still, you have several items that have to be done today and ask, would it be possible to help you with that first thing tomorrow?
The bottom line is that there is always a better way to say no. Try some of these:
- I wish I could. Would it be okay to take care of that for you tomorrow?
- I’m unable to get that completed today, still we’ll work to get that done as soon as we can.
- It would be great if we could do it that way, definitely. Still, we’re unable to do so. Let’s look at ways we can work together to make sure this gets taken care of in a way that you’re happy with.
What’s been your experience working with customers, prospects or even internal team members; how has the way you’ve said things impacted the interaction with them?
