Saying no to someone who asked.
WHAT SITUATIONS ARISE
Declining a supplier's proposal Rejecting a partnership approach Turning down an invitation Refusing a request for sponsorship
WHAT TO DO
Answer, rather than not replying.
WHY
Silence is the common approach and the resented one.
HOW SOON
Promptly, once decided.
WHAT TO INCLUDE
A clear decision Brief thanks for their effort A reason, where you can give one
WHAT REASON TO GIVE
The real one, if it is shareable.
WHAT IF IT IS NOT
Say the decision has been made, without invention.
WHY NOT INVENT
Invented reasons invite arguments against them.
WHAT TO AVOID
Implying a future opportunity that does not exist Suggesting they try again when they should not Excessive apology
WHY THAT FIRST POINT
It costs them time later.
WHAT TO DO IF THERE IS A GENUINE FUTURE POSSIBILITY
Say what would need to be different.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT FEEDBACK REQUESTS
Give something specific, if you can.
WHY
It is rare and valued.
WHAT TO KEEP
A record, for anything commercial.
WHAT TO REMEMBER
That people you decline may be counterparties later.
