Everyone recognizes how difficult it is to deal with rejection, but many overlook the fact that having to reject someone can be equally as difficult. In college, there are inevitably going to be scenarios where a guy asks for your phone number and you’re not interested.

Allowing yourself to be guilted into giving out your personal information in order to avoid hurting someone’s ego is not the answer. Instead, try one of the strategies below to minimize the awkwardness the next time you want to withhold your digits:

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Put Safety First

Say that you don’t feel comfortable sharing your personal information. This is the truth, and therefore the best place to start. 

You don’t have to mention the fact that you aren’t interested regardless. Explain that you’ve had negative experiences in the past and as a general rule, you don’t give out your phone number to anyone you don’t know well. This way, he won’t feel singled out and the rejection will feel less personal.

It would be nice if things stopped here, but unfortunately many guys can’t seem to take a hint and will continue to pressure you. Which brings us to…

Ask for His Phone Number Instead

If a guy will not let it go, ask for his phone number instead. You never have to call or text him, he doesn’t have your phone number, and he generally will be appeased for the time being.

Be cautious: this idea isn’t without its faults! I’ve been in situations where I thought this method was foolproof – until the guy decided to call himself from my phone after entering his number. To avoid this, make sure to always enter the information yourself.

Tell Him You Have a Significant Other

I’m not a big proponent of lying (unless of course, you do have a S.O.) but this method is one of the best ways to get a guy to leave you alone.