Schedule your pitches – timing matters

by | Nov 23, 2024



I’m blessed to receive many requests:


“Will you compose? Produce? Distribute? Perform? Write? Invest? Speak? Attend?”

It’s flattering and humbling.

But there’s one thing that never fails to surprise me:


The timing of many of these requests.

Every year, I receive a noticeable uptick in email requests on holidays.

For example, here’s a tally of email inquiries I received last year:

Labor Day – 4

Memorial Day – 6

Christmas Morning – 9

And then, of course, come the weekend requests, eager requests for meetings, investments, or last-minute feedback.

And while I respect the tenacity behind these queries, the timing can sometimes send the wrong message.

Of course, if we are working together on a time sensitive project or you’re my client, I’m available 24/7.



Reaching out to someone on a holiday, or during their weekend, can inadvertently suggest that your needs take precedence over their downtime.


Most people know to steer clear of calling during a meal or showing up unannounced at someone’s door—email requests deserves similar consideration.


After all, the message behind a pitch on Christmas morning can seem as though you’re overlooking the person’s personal time and space.

Here’s how you can avoid pitching on holidays

Here’s the simple solution: scheduling.

Most email platforms allow you to time your messages thoughtfully.

Instead of sending that urgent email on a Saturday morning, schedule it for the next business day.

It’s a small adjustment, but it goes a long way in showing respect for the recipient’s time.

Besides respecting boundaries, scheduling emails more thoughtfully can also increase your chances of getting a response.

People are more likely to be receptive and engaged during regular business hours.


When you reach out during these times, you show that you value both your time and theirs, creating a more favorable impression.


So, the next time you’re tempted to hit send over a long weekend or holiday, take a moment to consider your timing.


Scheduling your requests is a simple gesture of respect, professionalism, and empathy.


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