Before labeling someone "difficult", diagnose the specific type: are they anxious, ignored, or genuinely conflicted in interest?

Repeat the same refusal in the same words calmly, no matter how the other person reshapes the pressure.

Say no in three sentences: thanks, refusal, closing — with no "sorry" or justification.

Memorize one 7-word refusal sentence and rehearse it until it emerges automatically under pressure.

Say "no, I can't" — complete sentence. No explanation, no apology.

You have the right to change your mind without justification — old promise doesn't bind forever.

Don't ask "do we need another hire?" — ask "if we started today with nobody, who'd we hire first?".