Techniques to Say "No" to a Great Idea

In business and life, saying no is as important as saying yes. 

You might have heard that the secret to getting things done is saying yes. However, in my experience, saying no can often be as essential to success as answering in the affirmative.

Consider the case that you're in a team meeting, and a colleague brings forth a really great idea. Unfortunately, it's one that can't be implemented at the moment due to business constraints. Yet you falter in saying no to them.

Now, how can you say no without offending the person at the other end? Here are two techniques that I've found to be of great use.

1. Avoid The "But"

How often have we heard the phrase, "It's a great idea, but…?" The 'but' itself lets both you and the other person know that the idea actually isn't that great; you're only saying that to be polite.

So, I recommend you do away with the 'but.' Instead, acknowledge that the idea is a great one, and then explain why you can't accept it at the moment. In fact, you can even sit down with them separately and discuss how you can change situations so as to implement these new ideas.

And that's where my second technique comes in.

2. Don't Be Circumspect

Most people find it difficult to say no, and end up beating around the bush. This, if you ask me, is the worst way to say no, especially to a great idea.

That's why to be direct. Being direct doesn't equate to being rude. Always be upfront with why you can't accept the idea(s), and you'll find everyone respecting you for it.

Final Words

Saying no is hard, yet at times you need to make the hard call. I hope the above techniques will help you navigate this decisional quagmire better.