In-Depth Tips from Dr English
Dr English is the resident expert in language and communication training at Workplace English Training E-Platform (WETE). The informative and often in-depth articles below will help more advanced learners to understand and improve various aspects of their English, especially the English they need for work. You can read Dr English's tips on your PC, laptop or mobile device. These articles are only available for members of WETE. If you would like to subscribe and receive email notifications of future postings, please subscribe by clicking the Newsletter link above.
How to Say No Tactfully |
26 Apr 2022
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Below are some tips for declining a request or favour:
Saying ‘no’ to a request doesn’t necessarily mean having to say ‘no’ to the other person. If possible, avoid an outright ‘no’. Simply replace negatives with positives – say what you can do instead of what you cannot.
Express regret if you need to turn someone down. Use softeners ‘I’m afraid that…’, ‘I’m sorry that…’ or ‘Unfortunately…’. These are particularly effective if they are combined with an expression of understanding.
Explain the reasons for your rejection clearly. Avoid using a lack of authority or department/government policy as an excuse. These concepts are too vague and do not justify your rejection.
If possible, try to provide some positive alternatives. Make sure these are concrete alternatives. ‘I can’t. Maybe we can figure out something else’ is just as frustrating an answer as ‘no’.
Apologise and Offer Something Positive for the Future Certainly apologise for not being able to help. But only one sincere apology is necessary. Continuing to apologise will only waste the other person’s time and make your apology seem less meaningful. Try combining your apology with a positive statement such as one indicating your willingness to help in the future.
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Without doubt, it would make life easier if you could always say ‘yes’ to people. However, without saying ‘no’ sometimes, life would be impossible. Even though it is difficult to say ‘no’, especially to a manager or an external business partner, doing so is sometimes necessary. Subscribe to Workplace English Training E-Platform
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