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Close out a lost deal gracefully in under 60 words
- For Sales and customer success
- You practice Getting the tone right
- Time about 5 minutes
- Level Beginner
About this exercise
The buyer chose another vendor. Write a graceful reply. Line 1 must be exactly "Subject: Thank you, and best of luck". Start with "Hi Omar,". Plain text under 60 words. Thank him for the time, say you'd welcome a conversation in the future, and ask permission to check in once in six months (a yes-or-no question). Don't argue, ask why, mention price or the competitor, or offer a discount. Sign off "Pia". The final sentence before the sign-off must be exactly "May I check in once in six months?"
Common mistakes when you ask AI for this
- Making a last offer. The AI adds the 10% discount. Try: Add: "No discount or reconsider request."
- Asking why. The AI asks what influenced the decision. Try: Add: "Don't ask why or argue."
- No permission question. The AI promises to follow up. Try: Add: "Ask permission to check in once in six months."
- Wrong subject or length. The AI writes a long note. Try: Add: "Exact subject; plain text under 60 words."
What a strong prompt includes
- Sets subject and opener
- Thanks and leaves the door open
- Asks permission
- Bans arguing and offers
- Sets the sign-off
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