We throw the word “invitation” around a lot. But how do we know that what we’re making is actually an invitation? If people can say “no” to it, then it’s an invitation. So if we really just want a guaranteed “yes,” for whatever reason, then another tool might be more helpful than an invitation. However, consider this: When we truly invite, we create the conditions for others to think beyond their immediate options. Even if their answer is ultimately “no,” as Leadership Practitioners, we’ve nevertheless created the conditions for people to be the best version of themselves and do their best work. The rest is up to them.