Negotiate Anything

Why Saying No Can Make People Trust You More

12 snips
Nov 26, 2025
Discover the power of saying 'no' in negotiations and how it can build trust. Learn about the psychological barriers that make it difficult to decline requests. Kwame introduces the 'no sandwich' technique for delivering refusals with grace. Explore common ineffective strategies that can harm relationships. Gain insights from Warren Buffett on prioritizing what truly matters by saying no. This episode provides actionable advice, empowering you to handle challenging conversations with confidence.
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INSIGHT

No Is A Core Negotiation Tool

  • Saying no is as important in negotiation as getting to yes because it prevents cognitive dissonance and poor outcomes.
  • Avoid automatic yeses that conflict with your values or best interests.
INSIGHT

Why Common No-Strategies Fail

  • Three common bad strategies are saying weak yes, blunt no, or evading the question.
  • Each strategy damages relationships and creates more problems than a clear, principled no.
ADVICE

Use The No Sandwich Technique

  • Use a "no sandwich": start with the yes you protect, deliver a clear no, then affirm the relationship and next steps.
  • Stick to facts, use I-statements, be concise, and offer alternatives when possible.
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