Saying "no" can be hard for many people. We want to be polite, even if we think a proposal is unattractive. A standard way to be respectful is to help someone learn why you aren't interested. The problem is that when you say the reason you're turning them down, you give the other person information that they can use to make another appeal.The goal here is to give an unequivocable "no" in a way that lets you gracefully exit the interaction, while still preserving the relationship. You want to continue the conversation on your terms, even if you close a door for now. We believe saying "no" is an underrated superpower in negotiation. Here's how to do it more effectively. 1. Be polite but emphatic Thank them for asking. You can also apologize that you don't have a different answer: "That's so kind of you. I appreciate your asking. I'm sorry but I can't say yes."The strength of your answer doesn't require you to be rude. What makes it emphatic is that you give them a clear and inarguable response. 2. 'It's not you, it's me' is a classic for a reasonYour reasons for declining don't have to imply a negative judgment. If someone offers you a job and you aren't interested, you might say: "I'm dedicated to my current team," or, "I'm on a good trajectory and am not interested in moving." Our favorite response to this question is: "I'm so grateful, but it's not the right time for a move." None of these present a good opportunity for them to try again.Something like, "Sorry, I'm not interested in a lateral move," does not help you here because they could suggest an even bigger position. You want to offer obstacles that can't be easily countered. 3. Suggest an alternative A colleague of ours gives talks at big events and conventions. She works with a speaker's bureau that charges a standard fee that potential clients will sometimes try to negotiate down.She tells them, "The speaker's bureau I work with charges all my clients the same rate so I can treat everyone fairly. I may not be the right choice for everyone's budget. I can suggest some colleagues who do an excellent job and are more affordable."This approach is effective because it allows her to be kind and direct about her value in a way that won't give them the wrong impression. Even though she is rejecting the offer, she is still trying to fill the client's needs — and it lets her shine a light on some deserving colleagues. Everyone wins. Tone is important with this strategy. Look the other person in the eye and give your voice a downward inflection at the end of your suggestion, indicating finality. Watch their reaction and calibrate from there. 4. Keep your reasons vague The more information you give the other person about a problem, the easier it is for them to think of a solution. If you're not looking for a solution, keep your response short and to the point. If they ask for more information, you are under no obligation to share it. You can say something like, "I'm so grateful, but it's not the right time for a move." If they ask you why, you can say, "There are some exciting internal opportunities, but I'm not at liberty to discuss them." If they keep pressing you, push back more firmly. "I'm afraid you will have to accept my decision as final." Sometimes people do sincerely want feedback on why their offer wasn't good enough. You are never obligated to, but if you do, be cautious about offering them an opening to try to draw you back into a negotiation. And most importantly, be kind.John Richardson teaches negotiation at MIT's Sloan School of Management. He was previously at Harvard Law and was an associate at the Harvard Negotiation Project. He is co-author of "Never Settle: Persuasion and Negotiation Skills to Get What You Want."Attia Qureshi is an adjunct professor at the University of Michigan and former MIT faculty member who has conducted conflict-zone negotiation work on behalf of the U.S. State Department. She is co-author of "Never Settle: Persuasion and Negotiation Skills to Get What You Want."Want to get ahead at work? Then you need to learn how to make effective small talk. In CNBC's new online course, How To Talk To People At Work, expert instructors share practical strategies to help you use everyday conversations to gain visibility, build meaningful relationships and accelerate your career growth. Sign up today!