When I worked in banking, everyone was a phone call away.

If my New York-based client had a problem with a deal in Indonesia, I’d call my colleague in Jakarta.

My colleague would pick up.

And we’d solve the problem immediately.

Money never sleeps.

Years later, when I worked in corporate strategy, sometimes my manager would reach out saying:

“This is an emergency. We need to talk.”

I’d write back: “Sure, anytime.”

“Find a time in calendar in my next 2 weeks…”

😮

That’s when I realized most of the world schedules time to talk.

But here’s the thing…

I still don’t.

How to deal with incoming requests

I receive dozens of meeting requests every month.

Folks want help with their music, films, books.

Others want to pitch investment opportunities.

I appreciate folks reaching out.

I’m grateful that folks want to connect.

I respond to as many folks as possible (especially those whom I know).

I usually ask folks to call me whenever they’d like.

And here’s the thing:

Most people don’t.

They forget.

Or maybe they find it odd that we’re not scheduling a meeting.

Maybe they just don’t want to call me whenever.

I let them know that if I miss their call, I’ll call back (usually quickly).

So it doesn’t become an epic game of phone tag.

I dislike the alternative:

Scheduling a meeting that sits on my calendar that interrupts time I could use to work on my projects.

I like looking at my schedule and seeing some space so I can get stuff done.

In addition, I try not to Zoom.

I prefer to walk while I talk (get those steps in).

Not all meeting requests are the same

Obviously, if a client wants me to schedule a meeting, I’ll do it gladly.

I’m available 24/7 to chat with clients, partners, and others with whom I’m collaborating.

If I’m requesting someone’s time, I defer to how they want to communicate.

(Though I enjoy randomly calling folks to catch up. I called a friend the other day who said, “Nobody calls anymore.”)

It’s necessary to comport with the norms of the organization/institution in which you’re working.

You have to navigate your situation.

And do what works best for you.

However, when I worked in more traditional/office jobs, folks would appreciate me reaching out immediately by phone and trying to solve a problem.

Requests for your time

When someone asks you for your time (and they’re not a client/boss/colleague), ask them to call you.

You may be surprised with how few actually do.

That’s time you can repurpose.