Let’s say you have the attention of someone who agrees to meet or do a phone call with you, but they’re just too busy to set it up right now.
The wrong thing to do in most cases is to wait some number of weeks or months to reconnect with the person and set up a meeting.
If you have the person’s attention, you should see if there is a way you can get on their calendar right then and there, even if the actual meeting or call will take place weeks or months out.
Here’s an example of how this might work in practice:
You: “Hi _____, I’m an MBA student who is tracking the Big Data market sector. I have come across some interesting companies looking for funding and was wondering if you might be interested in meeting me to discuss them during the 1st week of December. Also have some interest in working in VC and would love to discuss that career path as well. Please let me know your thoughts. Thanks.”
Reply: “Hi Mary – thanks for the note. I would love to chat but I’m swamped for next month or so. Can you email me in the New Year and see if we can set up a time to speak? Thanks.”
You: “Hi _____ – would love to talk to you in the New Year. Would it be OK if we penciled in Feb 1 10-1030a Pacific for a phone chat and then change/move if needed? Thanks and please let me know if that works for you.”
Reply: “Hi Mary – sure, may have to reschedule it but let’s get it on calendar. I’ve copied my assistant who can get the logistics set up.”
Give it a try. It works.