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.

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • Intralec Welcomes Darryl Sinanan as New Inside Sales Representative

    Intralec Welcomes Darryl Sinanan as New Inside Sales Representative

    Intralec is pleased to announce the addition of Darryl Sinanan as its new Inside Sales Representative, bringing more than two decades of professional experience in learning and development, project management, and global team collaboration. Darryl joins Intralec with over 20 years of experience in Learning and Development, where he has built a reputation for designing… Read More…

  • Munden Enterprises and Kohler Generators Announce New Strategic Partnership

    Munden Enterprises and Kohler Generators Announce New Strategic Partnership

    Munden Enterprises is pleased to announce that as of Match 16, 2026, the company has entered into a representation agreement with Kohler to represent their Home and Light Commercial Standby Generator product line throughout Atlantic Canada. The Kohler Co. Generator lineup that Munden will be supporting ranges from 10 kW through 150 kW, providing reliable… Read More…


Peers & Profiles