One of the most common reasons I hear from people as to why they fail to introduce their idea, product or service to others is the fact that they are fearful of the rejection they might receive.
It was for this reason thatI figured the best place to start is with a set of Magic Words you can use to introduce something to just about anybody, at just about any point in time, that is completely rejection-free. The words in question are, “I’m not sure if it’s for you, but...”
Let’s take a moment to understand how this simple structure works. Opening a statement with the words, “I’m not sure if it’s for you,” causes the listener’s subconscious brain to hear, “There’s no pressure here.” By suggesting that they may not be interested, you naturally increase their intrigue. They wonder what “it” is, and this spike in curiosity hooks them. What’s more, it fires an internal driver that tells them a decision needs to be made, and the soft approach ensures this decision feels unpressured and internal.
The real magic, though, is delivered through the final three letter word of this sequence, a word that typically should be avoided in all conversations: the word “but.”
Imagine receiving a comment from your employer that started with the words, “You know that you’re a really valuable member of the team. We love everything that you do here, but some things need to change.” What’s the only part you would remember? I am guessing the part that you would focus on most is everything that follows “but.” The word “but” negates everything that was said prior, so when you say to somebody, “I’m not sure if it’s for you, but...,” what the little voice inside your listener’s head hears is, “You might want to look at this.”
When you say to somebody, “I’m not sure if it’s for you, but.. ., ” the little voice inside your listener’s head hears, “You might want to look at this.”
EXAMPLES
Here are a few examples to help you in your daily routine:
I’m not sure if it’s for you, but would you happen to know someone who is interested in (insert the results of your product or service)?
I’m not sure if it’s for you, but we have plans on Saturday, and you’re welcome to join us.
I’m not sure if it’s for you, but this option is available for this month only, and I would hate for you to miss out.
This rejection-free approach creates a simple outcome. One of two things happens: your listener leans in and asks for more information because they are personally interested, or, in the very, very worst-case scenario, they say they will give it some thought.
This piece is extracted from:
Exactly What to Say: The Magic Words for Influence and Impact
By Philip M Jones