ItDontMeanAThing
Full time employment: Posting here.
I found it's both what I say and how I say it. I took an assertive training class in my early 20s because I had difficulty saying no. Didn't work very well because others saw it as a technique and knew I'd cave. Wasn't until I had the presence to look upon them as attempting to take advantage of me and upon myself as someone who isn't taken advantage of that such assertive techniques worked. Kinda like someone with martial arts training almost never has to use it because his quiet confidence is enough to deter someone who wants to fight.
My stock phrases include "I'm sorry, I can't do X right now." or "I'm sorry, I can't do X this time." Repeat that a couple times, then if necessary, "Was there anything else?" If they keep trying I say "I'm sorry, I must be going now." then walk away or hang up.
My stock phrases include "I'm sorry, I can't do X right now." or "I'm sorry, I can't do X this time." Repeat that a couple times, then if necessary, "Was there anything else?" If they keep trying I say "I'm sorry, I must be going now." then walk away or hang up.