Buy time to decide

Say what you can check and when you’ll get back to them

A client wants you to commit to a Friday delivery. You’re waiting for confirmation from the supplier and know you can check on it again today. Under pressure, it’s tempting to say, “It should be fine.” But the client may take that as a firm commitment.

Say what information is missing and what you can do yourself. “I can’t confirm the date yet. I’ll check on the delivery and let you know by 15.00 what we can promise.” Even if the supplier hasn’t replied by 15.00, update the client with what you’ve found out and when you’ll have the next update.

Practice. Think of a situation where you tend to promise an outcome too soon. Say out loud what you still need to check and when you can update the other person.