You Can’t — Really?

Jeff Mowatt

Sept 25, 2019

By Jeff Mowatt

As a customer, you’ve likely asked for alterations to products or services. Sometimes those changes are straightforward, such as adjusting a delivery to suit your timeline. Other times you might ask for a significant change from a project’s original scope. That’s when you discover whether the service provider genuinely wants to satisfy you, or they’d rather get you out of their way.

When the tables turn and you’re the one providing the service, here’s a tip to keep the customer chemistry positive. When responding to requests, rather than thinking, “I can’t”, instead switch to, “How can I?” It puts you in a problem solving rather than confrontational mindset. It’s better for the customer and better for you in the long term.

Come to think of it, perhaps developing the habit of thinking, “How can I” vs. “I can’t” would also serve us well when considering our other goals in life.

This article is based on the bestselling book, Influence with Ease by Hall of Fame motivational speaker Jeff Mowatt. To obtain your own copy of his book or to inquire about engaging Jeff for your team, visit www.jeffmowatt.com. Watch for more articles from Jeff in future issues.

Similar Posts


Changing Scene

  • Labour Force Survey, August 2026

    Labour Force Survey, August 2026

    Employment declined by 42,000 (-0.2%) in August and the employment rate fell 0.1 percentage points to 60.8%. The unemployment rate was unchanged at 6.4%. Employment fell among youth aged 15 to 24 (-19,000; -0.7%) and edged down (-16,000; -0.1%) among people in the core-age (25 to 54 years old). While the overall unemployment rate was unchanged in August, it increased among core-aged men (+0.2 percentage points to 6.0%) and fell for core-aged… Read More…

  • Hammond Power Solutions Included in 2026 TSX30 Ranking

    Hammond Power Solutions Included in 2026 TSX30 Ranking

    Hammond Power Solutions Inc. has announced their inclusion in the 2026 TSX30 ranking, highlighting the top-performing companies on the Toronto Stock Exchange. “We continue to grow globally by helping our customers simplify electrification with innovative, reliable electrical solutions,” said Adrian Thomas, CEO, Hammond Power Solutions. “Receiving recognition for the third consecutive year, as a top… Read More…


Peers & Profiles