How to say no

A lot of people might be surprised by how empty my calendar is. Many CEOs seem to believe they have to wear themselves out working 9 to 9 — they torture themselves, basically — but I think you can run a large company in two to three hours a day.

Almost any CEO can get to that point, but it’s essential to have the right executive team, and it relies... See more

Hey [Name],

Great to hear from you! I hope things are going well with you.

While I do know [Person], I don’t feel comfortable sharing their contact information. I hope you understand.

Don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s any other way I can help, [Name].

Have a great day!

[Your Name]

Hi [Name],

Thanks for reaching out!

As much as I’d love to network over some caffeine, my schedule’s currently packed a little too tightly for me to make room for these types of casual chats.

If you had some specific questions you were hoping to pick my brain about, feel free to pass those along via email and I’ll do my best to answer them when I... See more

Hello [Name],

Thanks for thinking of me for [project]. However, I’m going to have to turn this down.

I want to ensure I continue to do my best with my existing workload and my plate’s a little too full for me to be able to take this on right now.

Sorry I can’t be of more help!

Best,

[Your Name]

Hi [Name],

Great to hear from you!

Because of [short and sweet reason], I can’t help you out with this at this time. But, I’m wishing you all the best with [thing you’re turning down].

Have an awesome week, [Name]!

Sincerely,

[ Your Name]

Hey [Name],

Thanks so much for the invite! I really appreciate you thinking of me.

Unfortunately, I won’t be able to make it to [Event] on [date]. But thanks again for sending an invitation my way.

Hopefully we can get together another time.

Cheers,

[Your Name]