How to Handle the ‘We’re in the Middle of Another Project’ Sales Objection

Big projects can take up a lot of bandwidth, and when a prospect says, “We’re in the middle of another project,” they’re really saying:

• Don’t have the time or resources to focus on this right now.
• We’re worried about stretching our team too thin.
• This feels like something we’ll revisit later

But here’s the thing—the right solution doesn’t add to the chaos, it helps streamline it. Your job is to help them see how this fits into what they’re already working on, instead of waiting until they’re “less busy” (which, let’s be real, never really happens).

How to Respond Without Sounding Pushy

1. Acknowledge and Get Curious

Show them you get it while digging into what their current project is about.

Example:
"Totally understand! Managing multiple priorities is tough. Just so I don’t waste your time, how does this project tie into the challenges we talked about?"

GPT Prompt:

Generate a response that acknowledges their current project while uncovering how it connects to our solution.

2. Position Your Solution as a Time-Saver

If they’re stretched thin, show how your solution could actually help rather than add more work.

Example:
"That makes sense. A lot of teams in the middle of big projects actually use [our solution] to make things run more smoothly. Have you thought about how this could support what you’re already doing?"

GPT Prompt:

Create a response that positions our solution as something that enhances, rather than competes with, their current initiative.

3. Address the Timing Concern

If they think they’re too busy now, help them consider whether waiting actually helps or hurts.

Example:
"I hear you on timing. But if [your solution] could help lighten the load, speed up processes, or make this project more successful, would it make sense to take a look now?"

GPT Prompt:

Generate a response that gently challenges whether delaying actually makes sense.

4. Offer a Low-Lift Way to Get Started

If committing now feels like too much, offer an easier way to test the waters.

Example:
"I know the team is swamped, so what if we started small—maybe a quick trial or pilot program to see if this can take some work off your plate?"

GPT Prompt:

Craft a response that offers a phased approach or trial to reduce hesitation.

5. Keep the Door Open for a Future Conversation

If they’re firm on waiting, lock in a follow-up that keeps you on their radar.

Example:
"That makes total sense. When would be a good time to check in so we can align this with your timeline?"

GPT Prompt:

Create a response that keeps the conversation open and sets a clear next step.

Cheat Sheet for Handling ‘We’re in the Middle of Another Project’

Final Thoughts

Other projects don’t have to mean “not interested”—they just mean “not right now.” Your job is to:

• See if this fits alongside their current project
• Show how it makes their work easier, not harder
• Help them reconsider if waiting is the right call
• Offer a simple, no-stress way to get started
• Make sure you’re the first call when they’re ready

Sometimes, the best time to start is in the middle of everything.

How DocketAI Can Help

DocketAI helps sales teams handle objections with real-time insights, urgency-driven messaging, and strategic follow-ups—so even busy prospects keep the conversation going.

🎯 See it in action—Book a demo today!