In Two ways to deal with "no" Seth Godin discusses how to behave when an organization turns you down. Some of his advice makes perfect sense: Write a thank-you note. Tell the prospect what you learned that'll make you stronger. Remind the decision-makers you'll be there if and when they need you.
But I've gotta disagree with two of Seth's suggestions. He advises readers to "sing the praises of the vendor chosen in your stead" and even say "based on the criteria you set out, it's clear that you made exactly the right choice for your organization right now."
Come on, Seth. If the chosen vendor happened to royally suck, and someone genuinely believed the folks doing the deciding made exactly the wrong choice, your final two recommendations would amount to nothing more than bullshit.
You claim they'll make you "more likely to be invited back, or to be the backup if the first choice fails." But is that what this is always about? I don't think so. Some business people would rather maintain their integrity than blow smoke to make an extra buck.
What do you think?
