When a colleague asks you for a small favor that you cannot grant, you should use a goodwill opening and a buffer closing as a courtesy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When denying a request, it's typically recommended to use a buffer or goodwill opening to soften the message, but the closing should be clear and direct, focusing on the refusal and any positive next steps or alternatives, rather than buffering the closing.

When a Colleague Asks You for a Small Favor That