A question I want to put to you today.

Apr 1 • Sales

Have you ever said yes to a client when something in you knew you should have said no?

I have. Early in my career, more than once.

And I noticed a pattern every single time. The client I was unsure about became the source of the most stress, the most scope creep and the least satisfaction.

When I later looked at the client bases of the coaches and consultants I work with, the pattern held. 80% of stress was coming from 20% of clients. Usually the ones who questioned the fee before they understood the value, or whose values did not quite match.

The strategic no is a skill worth developing. Not just knowing when to say it, but knowing how to say it professionally so you maintain the relationship and often get a better referral as a result.

I am curious where you are with this.

Which of these is most honest for your situation right now?

a) I say yes to almost everyone because turning work away feels too risky

b) I have said no before but I am not sure I did it well

c) I have a clear ideal client and I say no to misaligned work regularly

d) I know I should say no more often but I have not quite got there yet

Drop your comment below. I read every one and I am genuinely interested.

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