How you end a business relationship is as important as the ending itself. A well-delivered “No” can be the difference between increased referrals, revenue, and relationships — or massive fallout.
Here are four proven ways to say no without burning bridges.
How do you handle a business breakup?
Are you a bridge burner or a ‘leave-it-better-than-you-found-it’ kind of person?
In my experience, it’s best to balance truth with tact when parting ways.
This is because the business realm is small and people talk.
Next time you cross paths with someone, they could be a customer, employee, referral, or (gasp) your boss.
How you end things is just as important as the ending itself.
Why?
People remember the sting of rejection — and a botched breakup can cause resentment.
And the opportunity for referrals going forward. It also minimizes the chance of any friction, feuds, or awkward moments at conferences or other places you might bump into one another… the world is so very big, yet so very small…
