If you want to achieve work-life balance and still be a great leader to your team, you have to learn to say no to tasks, engagements, and even opportunities that may not align with your short- and long-term goals. If you’re worried about hurting feelings or burning a bridge or two, there are ways to frame the no so you remain polite, professional, and likeable to others.
4 different ways to say no that still make you likeable
1. “Let me think about it.”
This is a polite and professional way of asking for more time to consider the request. As a busy leader, you often need to think things through before making any decisions.
2. “The idea sounds great! It’s just that… “
Start on a positive note by sincerely complimenting or thanking the person for thinking of you.
You can then follow it up with an honest reason why you can’t accept the request.
3. “I can’t today. How about…?”
If you’re absolutely sure this is something you want to consider again, offer to reschedule at a better time when you can devote your full attention.
4. “I’m sorry, but I can’t.”
If you’ve got no time or interest in fulfilling the request, a straightforward no is the best answer you can give. There’s no room for false hope and you can rest assured that you’re still on track with your schedule and goals.
You can tweak any of these 4 scripts to best convey your decision and the reasons behind it.