So tired of the “we should meet for coffee or a drink” or “pick your brain” requests from people who clearly have not looked at each of our profiles to recognize the obvious… the only reason you want to meet with me is to try and leverage my network.
Come on, stop wasting our time. If you want to ask for advice, great, just remember to make it a two way street though. To be brutally honest, I see very little value in meeting unless it’s of equal value to me. My intent is not to come off rude but be directly honest instead of making up some lame “I’m too busy” excuse. If you claim to value transparency then you should most likely agree.
I wish you well but I just don’t see the value and feel you deserve an honest answer.
Seriously if we tried to meet with everyone no real work would get done.
And, when someone does actually agree to meet with you, please say this at the end, “Hey Richard, thanks for taking time to answer my questions. What can I do to help you?”
This simple question back will raise YOUR value in the eyes of the person you spoke with. They will appreciate the reciprocal gesture. In many cases there may not be anything you can do for someone. Still, the simple offer is well received and elevates your stature as a good human. And yes, one day this person will remember you and perhaps you can help them out.
Remember, everyone’s time is valuable, and we are all working to improve our time management. The simple ask is you be aware of this and make it worth everyone’s time, yours, and theirs.
