Step Five: Be firm.
You will get a few who insist and persist.
At that point you might want to ask several more detailed questions, such as, “Can you tell me exactly what the purpose of the meeting is?”
“Why do you think I am the one who can help you with that?”
“Have you tried talking to others?”
And if it’s still not the best use of your time, then you simply need to say, “As much as I’d like to … I can’t. I’m sorry.”
Step Six: Thank them.
Always be kind. Close kindly on every transaction.
Just because you couldn’t help them doesn’t mean their request isn’t valid. So thank them for being passionate about the issue or reaching out for help.
You may deny the request, but you want to honor the relationship.
I know what you’re thinking—but what if you miss some great opportunities by saying no too often? What if you get it wrong and you should have met with someone?
To deal with that, I always keep one or two one-hour calendar slots open each month for people who aren’t regularly in my relational/work circle but who might be interesting to meet with, even if it’s not 100 percent strategic. It’s a pressure release valve on your calendar too, and sometimes some great stories come out of those breakfast meetings. If not, I’m doing for one what I wish I could do for everyone.
Saying no is one of the most difficult aspects of leadership. But you can get better at it and still be nice about it.
What are you learning on this? What are some great ways of saying no you’ve learned?
