Most networking conversations die in the same place.
You have a good chat. You say “We should connect.”
And then someone sends the message that quietly kills momentum:
“Totally — when are you free?”
It sounds polite. But it creates work.
Now the other person has to think, check their calendar, propose options, and manage the back-and-forth.
Busy people will not do that. Not because they do not like you — because it is friction.
Here is the fix: the 2-option close.
The 2-option close (copy/paste this)
Want to grab a quick coffee or do a 20-min call?
Does Tue 4:30 or Thu 8:30am work better on your end?
No worries if timing is wild right now.
That is it. Short. Specific. Low-pressure.
Why it works (the real reason)
People reply when the decision is easy.
This message turns a complicated question (“find a time”) into a simple choice (“pick A or B”).
And the last line removes the awkwardness of saying no.
When to use it (3 perfect moments)
- Right after an event: you just met and you want to lock in a second conversation.
- After an intro: you do not want the thread to drift into “nice to meet you” limbo.
- After a good DM exchange: you have context, now you need a real next step.
How to pick your two options (so it feels natural)
Rule 1: make it short
Use 15–20 minutes. Short lowers the commitment and increases yeses.
Rule 2: pick one “normal” time and one “backup” time
A good pattern is:
- one afternoon slot (after lunch)
- one morning slot (before the day gets chaotic)
If they are busy, they will propose an alternate — and that is fine. The goal is motion.
Rule 3: keep it inside the next 7 days
Two weeks out feels like “someday.” Next week feels real.
Two variations (use the one that fits)
Variation A: you want an in-person coffee
Want to grab a quick coffee this week?
I’m near [neighborhood / spot] — does Tue 4:30 or Thu 8:30am work better?
No worries if timing is wild right now.
Variation B: you want something even lighter (a 10–15 min call)
Quick one — open to a 10–15 min call to compare notes on [topic]?
Does Wed 12:10 or Fri 9:00am work better?
What not to do (common mistakes)
- Do not say “sometime.” It sounds friendly, but it gives no next step.
- Do not over-explain. A scheduling message is not a manifesto.
- Do not offer five options. Two is the sweet spot. More feels like homework.
How Thawe fits
Thawe is built to make it easier to find the right people locally, start real conversations, and actually follow through.
Because the difference between “we should connect” and a real relationship is not charisma. It is a tiny next step that happens.
Sources
- Harvard Business Review on relationship building and follow-through: hbr.org