When you first started your business, you no-doubt bent over backwards to try to accommodate other people and businesses in order to establish your reputation.
Now is the time for that to stop.
I’m thankful that saying “no” is finally becoming cool. For too long, people were told that “the customer is always right” and to be “nicer”.
Saying “no” doesn’t mean that you aren’t nice–a dishonest yes is actually much more cruel!
Saying “no” means that you have boundaries, and boundaries, my entrepreneur friend, are extremely healthy.
Scenarios:
Problem: A customer comes to you with a complaint. They are disgusted that you didn’t perform a service that you did not agree to–and don’t even offer!
Solution: “No, we don’t provide that here. I’m sorry you’re upset. Perhaps you would be happier if you took your business elsewhere? I think I know someone who can help you.”
Problem: Someone wants you to speak at a function they are holding this Friday. They asked you on Wednesday.
Solution: “No, I can’t do it. I would love to, but I already have so many things lined up that I have to do. When is your next event? Perhaps I could help you then?”
Problem: A customer puts in a huge order that you cannot possibly fill by the due date.
Solution: “No, we aren’t staffed to fill an order that large. Let me connect you with someone else who can.”
The Price of Saying Yes
What would have happened if you would have said “yes” in the scenarios above? You would have had major stress, important tasks would have gotten pushed back, and you would’ve been unprepared for the job at hand.
Did you notice what all of the scenarios had in common? You were being asked to do something beyond your ability. You can’t please perpetually cranky people, you can’t drop everything to accommodate others at the last minute, and your company (regardless of size) does have its limits. Above all, YOU have limits.
If the first person was nicer, the second person gave more of a heads up, or the last person had a smaller order, you could have easily said “yes”. You must evaluate every situation to see if the person in question is violating a boundary or not.
If they are, say “no”.
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Blessings,
Valerie Johnston
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