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

  • Electromate Certified as a Great Place to Work Once Again

    Electromate Certified as a Great Place to Work Once Again

    Electromate is proud to announce that it has again been certified as a Great Place to Work after a thorough, independent analysis conducted by the Great Place to Work Institute Canada. This certification is based on direct feedback from employees, as part of an extensive and anonymous survey about their workplace experience. The recognition highlights… Read More…

  • Gescan Announces Exciting ABB Motion Distribution Partnership

    Gescan Announces Exciting ABB Motion Distribution Partnership

    Recently, Gescan was excited and proud to announce its new strategic distribution partnership with ABB Motion in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. This collaboration brings together ABB’s drive technology and Gescan’s trusted distribution network, delivering more energy-efficient, high-performance motor control solutions to the Prairies. Read More…


Peers & Profiles