Scheduling and Rescheduling: Pointers to Build Relationships

Hectic is the only way to describe everyone’s schedule today. Those still working are doing the job of at least 3-4 people, which affects interview and sales appointments. Entrepreneurs are trying to stay above water. So many have over-extended themselves. Consequently, rescheduling has become a necessity more than ever.

However, some people choose to ignore the fact you have a meeting scheduled. They show no concern for your time and try to make it seem that it was your fault that you incorrectly wrote the date on your calendar. While others will call at the last minute to reschedule, never giving thought that you might have had to turn down another opportunity because you keep your commitments.

Should you be the one needing to reschedule, don’t be influenced by others in letting the time slot come and go. Instead, use these three tips:

1. Give as much advance warning as possible

The party on the other end will be grateful to have enough advance warning to properly fill the now vacant time slot. You will actually build the relationship between you when this is done properly. Why? Your advance warning demonstrates you are considerate, thereby building trust in you, enabling business down the road.

2. Apologize for any inconvenience

Apologizing is an art form today. Almost no one does it. When you say, “I am sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused,” you set yourself apart from everyone else. Once again, this simple statement will build your likeability factor and will encourage others to carefully listen to you when you do meet.

3. Offer 4 or 5 choices for new dates and times and ask the other party to confirm one.

Make it easy for the other party to read and to say “Yes!” You accomplish this by listing the dates and times underneath one another rather than in paragraph form. The listing is direct, easy to scan, and easy to pick a substitute date.

Suggest to the other party that they offer alternate dates and times should your selection not work. Reconfirm how the connection will be made. Lastly, thank the other party for being flexible. Saying thank you is another wonderful relationship building technique and again works to increase your likeability factor.

On the flip side, when others ask you to reschedule – be gracious and as accommodating as possible. Similarly offer alternate dates and times should the ones you provided not work for your schedule.

The entire idea behind this is to continue building relationships with everyone: hiring managers, friends, associates, prospects and clients. This will keep the positive flow of energy moving and everyone in an agreeable mood.

By being thoughtful, not only will you attract far more business but you will have a greater chance of landing the job you desire or anything else you want in life.

These pointers will help get you to that Smooth Sale!