Three things to say when an investor says no to your startup

When you hear a “no” it doesn’t have to be a final “no”, and it doesn’t mean you can’t still turn the situation into a win. Before we get into the best responses you can give to an investor when they express their disinterest or refusal of your offer, here is what not to do: Do not get cross, do not be rude, and do not try to pressure them to change their mind. More importantly - don’t take it to heart, and don’t let it weaken your conviction or rattle your self-confidence.

If you think you still have a chance to calmly make a convincing case and win them over, keep going at it. But too often, it is quite clear that their decision to decline, at least for now, is final.

So long as the investor you are talking to isn’t rude or condescending, there is more to do at this moment.

Here are three things you should say, or rather ask, when an investor turns you down, that might turn this loss into a win:

1. What would it take for you to change your mind? 
2. When would be the right time to get back to you and tell you about our progress? I’d love to keep you updated as we hit our next milestones. 
3. Is there anyone you recommend that I talk to right now?

You’ll be surprised how many great intros you will get, or how an investor that refuses you now, might change their mind later. So keep going at it, even when you get turned down.