No one likes to be told “no.” It can feel like a slap in the face, like a fallen tree blocking your path to success. I have to admit it is not one of my favorite words, but it is one that fires me up and challenges me in my work and my relationships. I constantly see innovative ways to turn that “no” into a “yes.” “No” is the buck that keeps getting away. The challenge is not in missing the buck in the first place, it is in finding a new path, an alternative, to hitting your target.
I was working with the CEO of a successful company on fine-tuning his sights and we ran into a roadblock. We were delving into one of his pain points and discovered he has a visceral reaction to the word “no.” He literally shuts down and cannot think of the next move. Through our consulting, we were able to find a way for him to turn that perceived rejection or problem into a challenge.
Here’s how we did it:
Remove yourself from the situation. Get above and clear and don’t take the rejection personally. Are they saying they don’t like the idea, the cost, the timing? At this point, the “no” becomes a negotiation.
Leverage your strengths and knowledge to pivot the “no” toward a “yes.” Do a quick playback and notice the things you did not in the heat of the moment. Make note of body language, level of interest and find what you missed the first time. Go deep into this until things become clear.
Remember and reiterate to yourself and others what the Desired Outcome is! By keeping your focus on your target you will achieve your goals, you will get to a “yes” in your hunt.
I never use the world “problem.” Everything is a challenge or an opportunity. This positive outlook keeps me focused on getting to a place of yes, even when things look dark. Put yourself in a place of challenge and opportunity and leverage the power of “NO.” Use it to fire up your core and get in the hunt. Take it as a challenge to succeed because as I like to say, success is always in season.
