Why is it that way too many of us would rather say nothing than merely a polite “No thanks, that doesn’t work for me”? Are we such sweet, thoughtful, empathic people that the thought of upsetting someone with a direct “no” is more than we can bear? If you think the answer is yes, let me tell you that leaving people hanging is awful! Please don’t GHOST!
For the “Say Nothing” group: Here’s food for thought: We don’t want to twist in the wind! If you are not interested in my invitation, offer, advice, lead, tickets to the Big Game, whatever— just say “NO….thank you.” I can take it. But what I can’t take, is being left to dangle…like a participle over a precipice. As for being so sweet that you might upset someone with a direct, “no thank you,” here’s a heads up: Saying nothing is not nice. In fact, it’s rude and thoughtless.
If you no longer are interested in buying a product, booking a speaker, employing the virtual assistant, attending the game; all you have to do is tell us….nicely. We’ll be disappointed and then we’ll get over it and move on. Which we can’t do if you don’t let us off the hook.
Savvy Networkers: Say something! Just say “no.” Please.
And your thoughts??? susan@susanroane.com