The key to turning someone down is to say "No," clearly and unambiguously, but also to offer something else at another time.
For many years our company hosted a consumer television show, where viewers were invited to call in with career problems. It was not uncommon for us to take 500 calls in one night (off camera). CareerLab invited 12-20 human resource managers, career counselors, to take calls and serve as experts. When an invited guest couldn't attend, I really appreciated their writing something like this on the response form: "Can't attend this one--traveling to Chicago--but count me in for the next." I knew they might not make the next show, either, but it was the thought that mattered.
ANDREA P. BACHA
Bacha & Gibson | Attorneys at Law
1900 Broadway, Suite 1700 |Denver, Colorado 80202
H: 303-458-4658 | C: 720-995-7169 | abacha@gmail.com
May 4, 20—
William S. Frank
President
CareerLab
10475 Park Meadows Drive, Ste. 600
Lone Tree, CO 80124-5437
Dear Bill,
Thank you so very much for thinking of me for your United Way committee. It sounds like something I would enjoy and find rewarding too! Working with you would be a big plus!
After thinking it over I have decided it won't work for me. It really is wishful thinking on my part to feel I could break away from the office in the middle of the day not only for a meeting, but the travel time involved.
I appreciate your confidence.
Cordially,
Andrea P. Bacha
Senior Partner
P.S.-- You can count on me if an evening meeting would work,
or for another project next time.
APB/jj