From Austin L. Church/Freelance Cake on LinkedIn
Say no. It’s a superpower that preserves your time for what’s most important.
Here are 7 tactful ways to do it:
1. "I appreciate you thinking of me. Unfortunately, I don't have the bandwidth right now."
2. "Sounds like a great opportunity. I have to pass on it. I'm overcommitted right now.”
3. “I’ve got my head down right now finishing my [fill in the blank; e.g., book]. Reach back out in [October; e.g., 3+ months], and let’s look at our calendars then.”
4. “I’m up against several big deadlines this month. If there’s still a need next month, reach back out to me.”
5. “With my current commitments and responsibilities, I don’t think I could do this in a way I’d be proud of. I appreciate the opportunity though.”
6. "Let me check my calendar and get back to you."
7. “I can’t do this, but so-and-so might have some capacity. Here’s the email address I’ve got: [person’s email address].”
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