Monday, February 17, 2014

Maybe Means No



“Commitment is an act, not a word.”
Jean-Paul Sartre
French philosopher, playwright, novelist, screenwriter, political activist, biographer, and literary critic.
1905 – 1980)

When someone says “I might be there” or replies to an invitation with a “Maybe”, please know this is likely a “No”.

And, better yet, please smile and say something like “Thanks for letting me know your thoughts on the event.  I am going to put you down as a no”.

Even though people may be surprised by your response, and even defend themselves, as someone planning an event, accept only commitments…to coming or not attending…not indecisive people for whom you cannot accurately plan time, food and more.  Also, this will keep you from additional follow-up, which can seem like begging, for a final count for your event.

Similarly, instead of saying “I might be there” or “Maybe”, please know you, too, are likely a “No”, so simply offer a “No, thank you”, and keep the host from wondering about you as well!

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