You're sitting at your desk. You've just heard a pitch that you like, but you just don't like. Maybe you want to go in a different direction. Maybe the pitch just doesn't quite sit well.
It's easy to say no to something terrible, but how do you say no to an idea that has potential?
Don't say maybe. "Maybe" could be the most honest answer, but that doesn't mean it is the most strategic one. Unfortunately, "maybe" connotates to the listener that you have just said "no" in a nice way to spare their feelings. Even if that's not true, you still run the risk of unintentionally patronizing your team, which doesn't help anyone.
Redirection is key. The strategic way to say "maybe" is to show that you understand the idea by repeating the idea back to them and paraphrasing. Show that you aren't just saying "no," but you are actually hearing the person out and giving constructive feedback.
Don't be afraid to criticize. In fact, criticism is something that your employees expect and need from you (even if they don't realize it).
Before you say no, ask enough questions first. Once you've shown that you understand the pitch, it is then wise to gauge how well they really understand their own pitch. Your uncertainty could just be an extension of theirs, clearly seen in their presentation.
The best part about this is that they will realize themselves that maybe there pitch isn't finished or hasn't been thought through. At that point, they are in a position where they can help themselves and don't need quite as much of a dramatic push from you. "No" becomes a second chance.
Jon Negroni is the Director of Public Relations, Promotion, and Marketing at Richter10.2 Media Group. For more information regarding Richter10.2, check out our introduction video here.
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