Refusing a Request - The Broken Record Technique
The broken record technique is calmly repeating a short simple statement over and over until the other person gets the message.
Use this when someone is trying to manipulate you by:
1. Asking off-topic questions
2. Attempting to provoke you in order to divert your attention
3. Pretending not to understand for example, trying to avoid the specific issue by any means available.
How To Use This Technique:
1. Listen carefully
2. Use a low, level and slow voice
3. Calmly repeat your statement over and over until the other person gets the message
Remember to keep your statement simple.
When necessary, combine your Broken Record with a Fogging statement
If you are refusing something, make sure your statement includes exactly why you are refusing. You don't want the other person to feel you are totally rejecting him.
Example: You: "No I won't lend you my Mercedes"
Friend: "Why not? We always share things."
You: "I understand (fogging), but I don't want to lend you my car"
The broken record technique is calmly repeating a short simple statement over and over until the other person gets the message.
Use this when someone is trying to manipulate you by:
1. Asking off-topic questions
2. Attempting to provoke you in order to divert your attention
3. Pretending not to understand for example, trying to avoid the specific issue by any means available.
How To Use This Technique:
1. Listen carefully
2. Use a low, level and slow voice
3. Calmly repeat your statement over and over until the other person gets the message
Remember to keep your statement simple.
When necessary, combine your Broken Record with a Fogging statement
If you are refusing something, make sure your statement includes exactly why you are refusing. You don't want the other person to feel you are totally rejecting him.
Example: You: "No I won't lend you my Mercedes"
Friend: "Why not? We always share things."
You: "I understand (fogging), but I don't want to lend you my car"
