Phone Calls
The best use of the phone is for a specific decision with a specific and fast-approaching deadline.
Phone calls are very bad at discussing general issues with busy decision makers. Phone calls should be concise and to the point. They work best within a brief window of a decision. Two to three days out up to the last minute, realizing that getting someone on the phone at the last minute is often difficult.
You often won't get the person you are calling - sometimes you will, especially at the local level, but often you will get an assistant.
Tips for phone calls:
- Answering machines are okay - Leave a message with your contact information and your request in detail. And call back. As many times as needed and leave as many messages as needed until you do speak to a person.
- œBe polite and be fast - Make your point, but remember, one of your friends may be trying to call right after you.
Leave a message. Be specific. Leave your contact information. And request a reply.
