You’re in luck! I just happen to have a spot open on Friday.”

say this, instead of telling a client who calls and asks for an immediate grooming appointment for her beloved Poodle: “Sorry, you can’t come in until Friday. We’re booked solid until then.”

why? It’s the same message — delivered in a much different language. And the end result is a much more positive feeling.

Source: Jeffrey Gitomer, author of Customer Satisfaction Is Worthless, Customer Loyalty Is Priceless

“What I like about your (idea, work, behavior) is …. What would make me like it even more is ….”

when to say it: When you’re dealing with a particularly sensitive employee and you want to keep the interaction positive so they don’t get defensive.
how to say it: Give meaningful, specific examples of what you like, and explain why you like these points. Then deliver the followup (“What would make me like it even more ….”), which will encourage better work.

Source: Caroline Webb, author of How to Have a Good Day: Harness the Power of Behavioral Science to Transform Your Working Life

“No, my best price is $200!”

when to say it: The price of the item you’re selling is $179.99. The customer looks at you slyly and asks you, “Is that your best price?” You answer, with a laugh, “No, my best price is $200!” It’s a nice, light way of defusing negotiations, establishing the value of your product and telling the customer you won’t go lower.

Source: PETS+