Re:Ask HN: How to politely decline an NDA?
by MalcolmDiggs on Friday December 19, 2014 @04:03AM
(#8771541)
Oy vey. It seems like you're using many strategies at once, so I'm not sure what results I'd expect. For me, this kind of conversation needs to take place in-person, and needs to be framed as a "yes I'll do it, but..." not a "no I won't do it unless..."
I think, big picture, if you want to salvage this client (who seems to be moving on) you might wanna just get in the same room as them and start saying yes a lot. And you want to have this conversation last, after they're already super excited about the project and ready to get started.
Me: Sends preliminary project proposal based off of vague details to my referral.
Referral: Sends me NDA and introduces me to the potential client.
Me: "The 5 year NDA length is longer than I will agree to. Is there a reason for the excessive length? I will agree to a 1 year term." After doing this I did more research on what to do.
Potential Client: Nice to meet you. The NDA of 5 years is very standard stuff. All of our partners do sign this agreement. Hope you can too. Thanks. I would like to discuss the estimate so that I do understand all. Thanks again. I would look forward to working with you.
Me: "Why do you specifically need the NDA? I'm worried that it's written broadly and will restrict my creativity.
I'm going to have my lawyer take a look at it and get back to you in the next few weeks."
Me: Sent another message after thinking a little more. "I want my lawyer to make modifications based on the specific needs. I may require additional compensation to sign, especially a 5 year contract.
Please let me know your additional questions for the proposal. We can setup a time to talk tomorrow afternoon or I could answer the questions in more detail over email."
Potential Client: Thanks for your feedback. We are in very preliminary stages on this. I wouldn't go any further until we have had more internal meetings and have a chance to to provide more specifics. Thanks for your time.