How do you say no to a client?
Quickly, with a reason in one sentence, and with somebody better placed when you know one. A fast no is kinder than a slow maybe. The client can go and find the right person, and you’ve kept the time for work you can do well.
Six situations, six answers
- 1
The work isn’t yours
“That’s outside what I do, and I’d rather you had somebody who does it every day. Try [name], who specializes in it.”
- 2
You’re full
“I’m fully booked until March. If that’s too late, I understand. If not, here’s the link to book the first open time.”
- 3
The budget doesn’t fit
“The smallest piece of work I do is [the offer] at [the price]. If that’s more than you planned, [the file or the group] might be a better place to start.”
- 4
The deadline doesn’t fit
“I can’t do it well by Friday. I could by the 20th, if that works.”
- 5
You don’t want the client
“I don’t think I’m the right person for this. I hope you find somebody who is.” A reason isn’t owed.
- 6
The ask is free work
“I’d need to do this as a paid session. Here’s the link if you’d like one.”
Within a day
A no sent within a day is a favor. A no sent after a week of silence is a disappointment. Decide, then answer.
On WorkWith, somebody asking about work that isn’t on your page writes from the foot of it, and the inquiry lands on Today with Send offer, Reply and Decline a tap away.
Checked 2026-10-11.