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The Best Way to Say No is NOT by saying NO
It’s a simple, easy trick!
Last year, a friendly colleague politely asked whether I could take up an urgent task so she could leave early. At the time, I was creating blog posts for two premium clients and editing articles for a new client.
There was a lot on my plate, and I didn’t have to think twice before saying no and politely giving the reason. She left, and I went about my day.
That was the last time she initiated a conversation with me. Later, my team member shared that the colleague thought I wasn’t a team player.
Fast forward to now, when I manage several clients, run a team of remote writers, handle personal commitments, and get smiled at after saying no.
I’ve learned the hard way that no one likes hearing no, and to maintain relationships it’s best to forget that word exists.
Now, I use a trick that enables me to reject a request yet make the other person happy. Here’s how.
The Key is to Offer Alternatives
“A person with a problem will be satisfied only with a solution.”
When someone asks you a favor, they count on you to help, or else they’ll leave dejected, probably with some resentment in their hearts. If you want them to walk away satisfied, you have to say yes.
Saying no can create tension, earn you judgment, reduce bonuses, and in hindsight, have undesirable outcomes.
How can you prevent that?
Most requests have a hidden loophole for you to slide through smoothly without either party getting emotionally hurt.
To say no yet have a pleasant conversation, offer them an alternate solution instead of declining their request. Look for the best possible next solution and offer it, before they come up with it themselves.
“You can ask the manager for a deadline extension. She’s understanding and kind.”
“The others might be open to swapping shifts tonight. I’ll ask around and let you know if anyone’s interested.”
“We can ask other team members if they have time to take up the task.”
