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How to say "no?"

post #1 of 5
2/10/13 at 10:25am
Thread Starter 

When you are dealing with a client and you suddenly see red flags (complaining about price, wants to micro-manage, etc.), how do you tactfully say "no?"  I don't feel comfortable in lying and saying I can't because of a made-up reason.  I need to know how to say I won't, in a professional way of course.  Do you have a generic "canned" response?  Or, do you give details why you won't take on their request?

 

Thanks!

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post #2 of 5
2/10/13 at 10:38am

This is such a hard one.  I have had some difficult clients that turn into the best advocates for my business.  But I think it is ok to be honest and say that you don't feel that you and the client are on the same page and that you think she/he should look for a different decorator.  However, if the event is close or if you have accepted a deposit you may end up with an angry customer.
 

Heather
www.canadiancakefactory.ca
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Heather
www.canadiancakefactory.ca
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post #3 of 5
2/10/13 at 11:46am

If you can bow out gracefully and use the "I book on first come first deposit paid basis.  Regrettably, I am no longer available for your date."

 

If you want to be honest:  "After a great deal of thought & review of our correspondence, I feel that I may not be able to fully meet your expectations regarding this specific cake.  Please accept my best wishes."

www.VeryDeliciousDesserts.com

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Delicious-Desserts/207874222593145

 

It's never "just cake!"

 

You may get a cake for $way to little but you won't get this cake!

Groom's Cakes
(1 photos)
Other / Mixed Shaped Wedding Cakes
(3 photos)
Retirement
(1 photos)
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www.VeryDeliciousDesserts.com

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Delicious-Desserts/207874222593145

 

It's never "just cake!"

 

You may get a cake for $way to little but you won't get this cake!

Groom's Cakes
(1 photos)
Other / Mixed Shaped Wedding Cakes
(3 photos)
Retirement
(1 photos)
Reply
post #4 of 5
2/10/13 at 3:45pm

"I cannot do justice to your requirements" says enough...more than they think;)

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post #5 of 5
2/10/13 at 5:23pm
Thread Starter 

Thanks for all the replies and suggestions.  I'm hoping I won't have to use them too often :)

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