What if the Hiring Manager Has No Time for You?

The Five Minutes And Counting Technique

The following technique works well with busy managers or those who state that they do not have time to meet with you. Here is a sample script:

"I understand you are a busy person and your time is limited. I am not asking you for thirty minutes, an hour, or two hours to meet with me. If you will give me just five minutes of your time—and not one second more—I will give you all the basic information you need to know about me so that you are ready to act when the time comes to add to your staff. You will know who I am, what I can do for you, and how I can upgrade the level of performance in your department. Five very efficient minutes. Five minutes and not a second more. Fair enough?"

If they do give you the chance to meet with them, the first thing you do when you walk in their office is take off your watch or set a timer on your phone, then lay it down on their desk, and make your presentation. At exactly the five-minute point, end your presentation. You must keep your promise or this technique will fail. You need to get straight to the main points of your presentation. And if you have presented yourself effectively, they will want you to stay longer. Give them your Networking Business Card and ask them to call you if they have any additional questions. If they ask you to stay longer, do it! Even if they don't, they have seen you in person, you have made your initial presentation, and now it is up to you to keep the contact alive by diligently following up.

The We-All-Have-to-Eat Technique

Still no time? Try this:

"I realize that you are a busy person and your time is limited. Yet we all take time for lunch. I would like to make you an offer. I would be happy to treat you to lunch at the restaurant or cafe of your choice, if you will just take the time to listen to my background while you're eating. All I ask of you is that you keep your ears open. Fair enough?"

If lunch doesn't work, offer breakfast or even coffee. When your offer is accepted, either order light or not at all—use your time to sell the manager on you.

It will be the cheapest meal you will ever buy since your new contact will feel a personal obligation to assist you, either directly or indirectly.