“I can’t do it, but X might be interested” - Deepstash

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“I can’t do it, but X might be interested”

It is tempting to think that our help is uniquely invaluable, but often people requesting something don't really care if we're the ones who help them- as long as they get the help.

1.11K

4.17K reads

MORE IDEAS ON THIS

The Awkward Pause

The Awkward Pause

Use awkward pauses as a tool to say no. When a request comes to you (this works only in person), just pause for a moment. Count to three before delivering your verdict.

1.38K

7.24K reads

Using E-mail Bouncebacks

Using E-mail Bouncebacks

Using email bouncebacks is the most socially acceptable “no” there is. It doesn't mean you're telling them that you don't want to respond to them. It only states that you can't reply for a certain period of time. 

1.02K

5.02K reads

Josh Billings

“Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly and not saying no soon enough.”

JOSH BILLINGS

1.66K

12.8K reads

Saying "No" With Humor

Saying "No" With Humor

Saying "no" with humor will lessen the awkwardness and will lighten up the atmosphere.

1.09K

5.58K reads

“Let me check my calendar and get back to you”

“Let me check my calendar and get back to you”

It gives you the time to pause and reflect and ultimately reply that if you are or are not available. It enables you to take back control of your own decisions rather than be rushed into a “yes” when you are asked.

1.23K

4.91K reads

“Yes. What should I deprioritize?”

“Yes. What should I deprioritize?”

Saying no to a senior leader at work is almost unthinkable, even laughable, for many people. However, when saying yes is going to compromise your ability to make the highest level of contribution to your work, it is also your obligation. In this case it is not only reasonable to say no, it...

1.28K

4.69K reads

The Soft "No" ("No, But")

E-mail is also a good way to start practicing saying "no but" because it gives you the chance to draft and redraft your "no" to make it as graceful as possible. Plus, many people find that the distance of e-mail reduces the fear of awkwardness.

1.12K

5.96K reads

“You are welcome to X. I am willing to Y”

This is a particularly good way to navigate a request you would like to support somewhat but cannot throw your full weight behind. I particularly like this construct because it also expresses a respect for the other person's ability to choose, as well as your own. It reminds both parties o...

1.12K

4.01K reads

<p>"<i>Saying no is its own le...

"Saying no is its own leadership capability. It is not just a peripheral skill. As with any ability, we start with limited experience."

1.18K

6.53K reads

Warren Buffett

"The difference between successful people and really successful people is that really successful people say no to almost everything."

WARREN BUFFETT

1.57K

6.61K reads

CURATED FROM

CURATED BY

lailaim

Star Wars fanatic. I have a persistent enthusiasm to create new things.

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People often don't really know if they're conventional thinkers or independent thinkers.

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How do I find your "who"

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Marketers may fall into the trap that they think they want to sell to everyone. If Coke and Nike sell to everyone, they think they should sell to everyone.

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