Author Topic: Sorry, Can't, COVID And All  (Read 827 times)

DaDancingPsych

Sorry, Can't, COVID And All
« on: July 21, 2020, 01:34:29 pm »
What is a polite and professional way to say, "Umm... we are in the midst of a pandemic, I don't want to take this job because we have to be up in each other's personal space!"

I'll keep it simple, as there is some backstory, but I don't think that it really changes the fact that I'm trying to say the previous sentiment. Anyways, a potential client contacted me wanting to know if my schedule has changed and if I could take them on. (I was too swamped last summer and fall.) I do have the time, but not really the need or desire... with a major component being that I would need to be closer to this person (her spouse and kids, too) then the recommended six feet. I would basically need to hug them for an hour each week.  ::)  It seems like when I react with caution that everyone's response is "Don't worry, I won't give you the virus." When I want to scream "I am more worried that I will give YOU the virus." (I don't think I have or have had it, but could very well be asymptomatic.) This has all become such a political issue in the United States that I feel like I need to tread carefully. Thoughts?

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lowspark

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Re: Sorry, Can't, COVID And All
« Reply #1 on: July 21, 2020, 01:46:27 pm »
Unfortunately, my schedule is such that it still does not permit me to accept this job.
Or, more simply,
I'm still not available at this time.

If you're trying to avoid conflict/argument/political clash, I don't think you have to say why, or even mention covid.
You're unable to take the job, and that's that.
« Last Edit: July 22, 2020, 11:02:02 am by lowspark »
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Jem

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Re: Sorry, Can't, COVID And All
« Reply #2 on: July 21, 2020, 02:16:24 pm »
I agree with lowspark. Don't mention COVID at all. Just pleasantly decline the job.
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Hmmm

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Re: Sorry, Can't, COVID And All
« Reply #3 on: July 21, 2020, 02:23:59 pm »
I agree. I don't think there is any reason to share why you don't want more clients.

I'd go with a fully honest statement. "Hi, thank you so much for contacting me. Unfortunately, I am still not able to accept any additional clients at this time. Things may change next quarter. Would it be ok to reach out to you in September (or whenever you thinks appropriate) to see if you still have an interest?"

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pjeans

Re: Sorry, Can't, COVID And All
« Reply #4 on: July 21, 2020, 02:44:53 pm »
I agree with lowspark. You'll avoid trouble if you don't open that door.  Frame your answer as a temporary situation with no details.

I'm personally not as anxious as many people around me when it comes to the virus. I take reasonable precautions because they make sense, and extra precautions to ease the minds of others. As long as people don't yell at me (lookin' at you, SIL) or call me an idiot (... ahem, coworker who I otherwise adore...) we're good. I'd totally understand if someone turned me down for their peace of mind in this time, even if I was more comfortable with the situation. I don't think in our current culture, though, that you can count on others to respect a different-from-theirs point of view. And that kind of sucks.
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Winterlight

Re: Sorry, Can't, COVID And All
« Reply #5 on: July 21, 2020, 04:53:48 pm »
I agree that sticking to telling them you are unable to take them on now is the safest response. You don't want to have to debate this, especially with someone you do potentially want as a client down the line. There's no point.
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PVZFan

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Re: Sorry, Can't, COVID And All
« Reply #6 on: July 21, 2020, 09:13:49 pm »
I agree that sticking to telling them you are unable to take them on now is the safest response. You don't want to have to debate this, especially with someone you do potentially want as a client down the line. There's no point.

Agree! We're in the same area I think and, given this climate, I'd stick with "Sorry, I can't take on new clients right now. I'd love to work with you, can I get your contact information and update you when I'm taking new clients?"
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DaDancingPsych

Re: Sorry, Can't, COVID And All
« Reply #7 on: July 22, 2020, 11:29:12 am »
Thanks everyone! I'm not sure why I was over thinking this one.

I agree that sticking to telling them you are unable to take them on now is the safest response. You don't want to have to debate this, especially with someone you do potentially want as a client down the line. There's no point.

Agree! We're in the same area I think and, given this climate, I'd stick with "Sorry, I can't take on new clients right now. I'd love to work with you, can I get your contact information and update you when I'm taking new clients?"

Yes, from what we've put together, I do believe that we are neighbors!  ;D  It's one of the reasons I appreciate your advice. It is typically great thoughts and you have an understanding of the culture.

Thanks everyone!
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Luci

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Re: Sorry, Can't, COVID And All
« Reply #8 on: July 22, 2020, 08:52:59 pm »
It’s just like an invitation. One does not have to give a reason or JADE.
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