How to Refuse a Date to Ensure No More Requests

Unless you want to be asked out again by this person, be direct and leave no room for misinterpretation.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Be clear, consistent and gracious in your refusal. Be politely neutral rather than emphatic.

2. Don't hesitate, procrastinate or ask to think about it.

3. Express regret, if you'd like, but never say anything you don't mean, such as, 'Maybe another time.'

4. Devise an impersonal, generic explanation if you prefer, such as, 'I never date co-workers' or 'I'm involved with someone else.' Otherwise, simply refuse the invitation with a polite 'Thank you for thinking of me. I'm sorry I'll have to say no.'

Tips & Warnings

• If a person persists in asking you out, just persist in being firm and clear. Sooner or later, you'll get the message across.