Why Ghosting is Harmful to Your Reputation
The Importance of saying "No Thank You" with respect and professionalism
The practice of ghosting – suddenly ceasing communication without explanation – has become all too common. And it’s not just happening in the dating world – it’s happening in business as well!
I’m not talking about those unsolicited emails and Linkedin messages from people wanting to sell you their services. Those are super annoying. I’m talking about potential clients who’ve expressed an interest in working with you. They’ve emailed, booked a discovery call and received a proposal. Then crickets.
I’ve been ghosted like crazy by potential clients over the last few years and find it increasing frustrating and energy sucking. Then, a few weeks ago after going back and forth with someone about working together they send a simple ‘No, thank you’ in an email. It was magical! 3 words – that’s all it takes.
I marked them ‘not interested’ in my CRM and moved on. They no longer needed to take up any of my energy!
When there is such a simple solution, why do people ghost?
Here are 4 reasons.
Avoiding Conflict
Many people hate conflict and are afraid of hurting others’ feeling - and will do anything to avoid it.
Feeling Overwhelmed
People may ghost if they're feeling overwhelmed by the demands of their business and family life.
Difficulty Expressing Emotions
Some people may have trouble expressing their emotions in a professional setting and may resort to ghosting as a way to end a relationship.Insecurity
People may ghost if they feel insecure about their own skills or abilities.
While ghosting may seem like an easy way to end things or imply a no, it's crucial to understand the damaging impact it can have on the recipient, on your brand and on your professional reputation.
Here are several reasons why you should avoid this practice and instead opt for a straightforward "no thank you" in business:
1. Respect
Ghosting sends a message of disrespect and unprofessionalism to the person being ghosted. It implies that you're unwilling to have a direct conversation or provide an explanation for your actions. Saying "no thank you" shows that you value the person's time and effort, and are willing to have an honest conversation about why the project isn't moving forward.
2. Future Opportunities
Ghosting can have a long-lasting impact on your professional reputation and may harm your chances of working with the person in the future. On the other hand, being upfront and honest about why you're saying "no thank you" shows that you value the relationship and may leave the door open for future collaboration.
3. Open Communication
Ghosting can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations of your intentions. By saying "no thank you," you're creating a clear and open line of communication, which can help to avoid confusion and build trust.
4. Maturity + Professionalism
Ghosting can come across as immature and unprofessional, whereas saying "no thank you" takes a level of maturity and professionalism. It shows that you're willing to handle difficult conversations with grace.
Saying ‘no thank you’ is straightforward and respectful. It shows that you value the other person's time and effort, it preserves future opportunities and demonstrates your maturity and professionalism.
Close the loop and allow people to move on. It’s the right thing to do.
Who do you need to email with a ‘no thank you’ message? Go send it now.