You Suck at eMail (Part 3)

Written By Derek Peters

Getting the Yes (Meetings, Follow‑Ups, and Real‑World Etiquette)

Your email should ask one question.

One.

Ideally, a one‑word answer:

Yes.

Ask for a Meeting the Smart Way

Don’t ask if they want to meet. Suggest it.

Use your research.

Could I buy you a coffee at Mean Mug (Main St.) this week?

Then make it easy:

  • Tuesday — 9:00am EST

  • Wednesday — 1:00pm EST

  • Thursday — 4:00pm EST

Wide option. Narrow choices.

Always include the timezone.

When They Say Yes

You do the work.

Great! I’ll send a Google Calendar invite.

Limit meetings to 30 minutes. Let them extend it.

Day‑Of Courtesy Email

Short. Helpful. Human.

Looking forward to coffee at 8. I’ll arrive early and grab us a table — what can I order for you?

Include what you’re wearing and your phone number.

Face‑to‑Face Still Matters

Bring:

  • Business card

  • Two pens

  • Notebook

Ask three questions:

  1. What should I know?

  2. Who should I know?

  3. Where do I fit in?

Follow‑Up and Tracking

Thank them.

Ask if you can check in occasionally (monthly is good).

Track outreach in a simple spreadsheet.

Final Rules of Communication

  • Calls: urgent or pre‑arranged

  • Texts: time‑sensitive

  • Email: lets them choose when to respond

Dress for the job you want.

Send resumes only if they’re strong or requested.

Early in your career, you are the product — not your resume.

Be reliable. Be easy to work with. Be professional.

Break the rules when needed. Be human. Find what works for you.

Derek Peters
Next

You Suck at eMail (Part 2)