How to Graciously Decline a Networking Invitation

By Brian Maynor

 

“Can we meet for coffee?”

I bet you can’t even count the number of invitations to coffee or lunch you receive a month, especially if you enjoy success or an elevated status, such as expert.

At first it is flattering that people would seek out your help and guidance, but that gets old very quickly.  Since most meetings will be a minimum of 30 minutes you would have to block out at least an hour, maybe more, significantly cutting into your day.

It is easy to accept or decline some invitations, like those from close friends or complete strangers, but most of the people wanting your time and opinion are somewhere in between.  Since most of us have a hard time saying ‘no’, here are a few of the most effective and gracious ways to decline an invitation:

1.    Request more information.  A lot of requests come from referrals, people who have been referred to you by someone else, without a clear reason as to why.  These requests are generally vague so it is perfectly appropriate to ask for more information before agreeing to a meeting.  This will often quash the request without you having to decline.

2.    Direct them to other resources.  Once there is a clear, direct purpose for seeking your advice the next step is to send them to resources you’ve already generated.  As an expert chances are great that you already have blog posts, articles or other materials on the topic which would cover the request.  This is both helpful to the other person and protects your time.  Over half of the requests will end here.

3.    Invite them to a group event.  Whether it is a networking event you’re attending or a personal gathering you’re hosting, inviting someone to a group event is a win-win.  You are able to connect with a lot of people at one time and expand the network of everyone attending.

4.    Simply decline.  Sometimes the only answer is ‘no’.  If that is the case, the best way to handle the situation is a prompt, polite response thanking them for the invitation.  While they may be hurt that you declined, at least you responded graciously and in a timely manner.

While networking is a huge part of being a professional and important, it is impossible to accept every request to connect, and sometimes you simply don’t want to meet the person.  That is why it is crucial to know how to decline an invitation without offending the other person, or damaging your reputation.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.