by Stever Robbins

Streamline your scheduling and work less by eliminating never-ending back-and-forth. When you suggest a meeting, immediately suggest several times that work for you, and invite everyone else to pick one.

“I’m available Tuesday at 3, or Friday at 5. Let me know what works for you.”

If your times don’t work for others, give them the chance to offer counter-suggestions and choose one that works for you. “If none of these times are convenient for you, please suggest a few alternatives and I’ll choose.” If you do one full back-and-forth without finding a time you both like, pick up the phone and call. 

Good news -- the same principle applies to avoiding phone tag!