Here are some strategies you can use:

1. Listen First, Understand the “No”
   Show genuine curiosity about their perspective. Ask questions, listen without interrupting, and validate their concerns to build trust.
    
2. Reframe as Collaboration
   Shift the conversation from your request to a shared solution. Position it as: “How can we make this work together?” instead of “Why won’t you do this?”
    
3. Offer Flexible Paths Forward
   Instead of pushing for one outcome, propose options or smaller steps. This shows respect for their needs while keeping the door open to agreement.

👉 Quick Example:
If your boss says “No budget for this project”, you might respond:

• “I understand. If we could do a scaled-down version that fits within the current budget, would you be open to that?”

Some resources for you:

Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: https://portal.karenlaos.com/words-to-avoid

My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/

Episodes also available on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos

Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world’s most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator.

Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: Words to Avoid | Karen Laos

Connect with me:

Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial 

Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsulting

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/

Episodes also available on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videos

My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: 

https://karenlaos.com/book/