Can we schedule a call?

Let's talk about how to best navigate networking to yield better response rates. We are fully immersed in a digital world and often times that means messaging people you may not have met in everyday life to ask for something. Whether it's a general question or an ask of their time, it's important to prepare before launching into an ask.

Ask smart questions. Have a specific ask that isn't just a request to chat. Consider that if you thought to message that person, at least 100 other people had the same idea. Always include a greeting, keep in mind that this is someone you do not know or do not know well, so lead with your best effort. Be polite and get to the point. If you are connecting for information, ask smart and pointed questions. Requesting to have a general chat with a stranger on the internet (no matter their job title) is not the best lead in. Be sure the question you are asking is not something that you can easily Google. I could provide a ton of examples here, but you're already thinking of them, so don't ask those questions.

Be aware that time is money. While most people are generally interested in offering support, they are also faced with time constraints. Like you, they are likely juggling family life and a workload that can be daunting. Don't be the person trying to take advantage of their experience and access by approaching with a sense of entitlement to any of what they have worked for. Be gracious. Leverage your outreach as an opportunity to make a genuine connection, before asking for anything. This can be quite difficult because I'm sure you would like an answer to your question, but the effort goes a long way and may actually garner a response.

Assume every person wants to be supportive, make it easy for them to provide that support. Be sure your message includes any key details necessary for someone to answer your question in a quick and simple fashion. If you ask a question and leave out key information, you may not receive a response simply because that person reviewed your question and decided that the back and forth needed to fill in the blanks would take more time than they have to offer. Think of the 5 w's (plus h) and frame your ask with those as your guide.

Leverage your network. I'm often surprised at the lengths people will go to connect with people they don't know, while passing on viable resources within their existing network. People know other people, have someone make an introduction on your behalf as an entry point of conversation. Socialize your interest in xyz company or person and let your reputation do the work for you. I can certainly say that my name enters a space or a persons mind, long before we ever actually meet. That type of preemptive networking is a direct result of me being willing to go the extra mile for others and in turn they do the same for me.

You may very well get a response and schedule the call, but be sure you show up prepared to represent yourself well.

*Written in Dunwoody, GA, while looking out at the mall I didn't have time to visit on this trip.