When Asked 'When Can You Talk?' — Come Across Like a Pro and Cut Out the Back-and-Forth

I'm writing this to save you (and me) some time.

Scenario: Ryan introduces you (Tom) to Janet because you're poking around for a new job and Janet is a founder with an opportunity on her team.

Pro-tip: Tom, take the initiative to reply back and suggest days and times for Janet to talk. Make the decision easy on her end.

Don't do this:

Hi Janet,

I'd love to set up a time to chat. Let me know when is convenient for you.

Tom

Do this instead:

Hi Janet,

Nice to meet you. It would be great to connect. I've provided a few available days/times below that work for me, and my calendly as well. If none of those work, let me know a good time for you and I'll make myself available. Thank you for the time. I really appreciate it.

• Tuesday, Sept 29 from 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
• Wednesday, Sept 30 from 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM
• Thursday, Oct 1 from 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Tom

Rules:

• Tell them it was great to connect and thank them for their time. Odds are they're busier than you. Recognize that.
• Offer 3-4 different days and very different times. Some people like to meet in the morning. Some in the evening. Provide a number of options. Always say if no times work, you're willing to move things around. You're the one asking for help, after all.
• If you have a Calendly, include it. Lots of people use this super useful tool. If someone is perturbed by you including it, screw 'em.

Why do this?

Three reasons:

• It makes it easy for Janet to choose a day/time.
• It saves you time, eliminating 1-2 more back-and-forth emails.
• It shows you're a busy person, you're organized, and you have your shit together.

Boom. Done. That's it.