Humbling Disclaimers
Humbling Disclaimers is another way to get clients to openly share. A humbling disclaimer is an assertion that precedes a statement or question for the purpose of injecting humility and procuring a more productive response, like:
- “I am not sure HOW to ask this, but…………”
- “Without being too forward, can I ask you about ……………..”
- “At the risk of getting myself in trouble, would you mind if……………..”
- “I am confused………………….”
Others get the opportunity to rescue you before you even deliver the question. A humbling disclaimer also softens the question. If you want to ask a delicate question:
- “I do not mean to push, but can I ask you a question about the issue?”
- “Excuse me but am I interrupting?”
And the client says “No, it’s OK” they will overemphasize that it is OK by adding more words to that sentence.
Caution: Do not apologize. Opening a conversation with an apology is wrong.
There is no reason to apologize. It weakens your position and makes you less credible.
