Entreprenuers enhance their execution, focus and credibility by saying a simple word…”no.” We know this word is simple to say but complex, challenging, and intimidating to use. You may find that you are saying the word “no” in your mind to yourself, but you just can’t get the word to come out of your mouth at the same time.
The more your company grows, the more times a day you must include this word in your decisions. It will need to become a routine in your vocabulary. There is a foundational reason various leaders (backed by science or not) make the case for saying "no" 25 times more than "yes." Making it clear that your answer is "no" while effectively saying it with empathy can be challenging.
If saying "no" makes you a better entrepreneur, wouldn't an entrepreneur build the word better and sell it? Consider adding some of the following phrases to your entrepreneurial vocabulary.
Ways to Effectively Say "No"
The non-definitive list of options for saying "no" like an entrepreneur. Anytime you see "I" know that you can switch it to "we" to represent your companies' response versus your personal feedback. Before any of these statements, please consider using phrases like, "unfortunately," "I appreciate your idea and thoughtful pitch," "but appreciate the opportunity to explore," "I am fully focused on my business right now," "let's keep in touch when/if that changes in the future" or similar so that the "no" statement is wrapped with empathy and thoughtful awareness.
Best and Most Direct Response
- No
Not the Right Time
- I am going to have to say "no" for right now
- The timing is not right as I have too many other focus areas right now
- I will need to pass at this time
- This doesn't align with my current goals and priorities
- I can't commit to it right now
- I am currently over-committed right now
- Another time would potentially be better
- I am pausing this decision but plan to revisit it next quarter
- That's not something I can agree to at this time
Not Aligned with Current Focus
- This doesn't align with our current goals and priorities
- I'm not able to accommodate this request
- I am moving in a different direction
- I am fully focused on my business right now and don't have available focus
- We have already finalized our plans and not looking to expand it
- Our budgets are fully allocated with no room for expansion
- We have finalized our plan and are not looking to make a change at this time
- This is something I want to consider further for next year
Not a Good Solution
- Is there another option or angle as this one is not an option
- I'm not convinced this is the right approach
- Let's explore other options
- I am going to decline the offer
- Let's explore other options
- I will not be moving this forward
- Let's explore other scope and pricing options later in the year
- This option doesn't work for me
- This is not really what I am looking for to support my business
