You Can’t — Really?

Jeff Mowatt

Sept 29, 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


Latest Articles


Changing Scene

  • Rexel Canada Welcomes Rexel USA Agreement to acquire Genuine Cable Group

    Rexel Canada Welcomes Rexel USA Agreement to acquire Genuine Cable Group

    October 19, 2026 “Rexel Canada welcomes Rexel USA agreement to acquire GCG (Genuine Cable Group)—a transformational step that will strengthen our capabilities, expand our reach and support continued growth across Canada, North America and global markets,” Rexel Canada CEO, Jeffrey Moyle announced on LinkedIn. GCG is a leading specialty infrastructure platform providing wire and cable,… Read More…

  • Ontario Announces Additional Funding for Training Seats for In-Demand Careers

    Ontario Announces Additional Funding for Training Seats for In-Demand Careers

    October 19, 2026  The Ontario government has allocated 40,000 new funded seats at publicly assisted colleges and universities to connect more students to good-paying, in-demand careers. This allocation, which is part of a broader $1.7 billion investment to support a total of 70,000 new seats, supports the province’s plan to protect Ontario and build a… Read More…

  • QEII Halifax Infirmary Tower Project Reaches Milestone, Wins Collaboration Award

    QEII Halifax Infirmary Tower Project Reaches Milestone, Wins Collaboration Award

    October 19, 2026 Construction of the new acute care tower at the QEII Halifax Infirmary has reached another milestone, with the Level 8 podium structure now in place. The podium is the lower, wider portion of the building that forms the base of the 14-storey acute care tower. It will house a range of hospital… Read More…

  • Ontario Starts Major Construction on Grimsby GO Station

    Ontario Starts Major Construction on Grimsby GO Station

    October 19, 2026 The Ontario government has awarded a contract for major construction on Grimsby GO Station, marking another milestone in its plan to protect Ontario by building the transportation infrastructure needed to reduce gridlock, shorten travel times and support economic growth across the province. Expected to be completed in the second half of 2027,… Read More…