Rescheduling - Less is More

Written By: Sandi MacCalla ~ 5/31/2022

Has your calendar taken on a life of its own? Even with more tools than tying a string around your finger, managing your calendar almost justifies hiring a VA to stay on track. Then comes the reschedule....

Rescheduling has its own “best” process. Keep these core steps top of mind when you need to reschedule a commitment:

• Notify sooner than later.
  • Assume others are just as booked out as you are and just as important in their commitments.
  • Send by email a minimum of 24 hours before the appointment; phone call or text for less time than that.
• An apology is warranted.
  • Respect the extra time/steps they’ll go through to change your appointment.
  • Let them know the importance of your relationship with them and the rescheduled meeting.
• No in-depth explanation(dental appointment, unexpected family from out of town, cable installation) is needed which can wipe out your sincere apology.
  • Heed the wisdom of Benjamin Disraeli, the British Prime Minster 1874-80, who saw “explaining” as approval-seeking behavior; except when it is justified by the circumstance or relationship.
  • Unless you’re a serial “rescheduler,” 99% will assume there’s a good reason for the reschedule that couldn’t be avoided.
• *IMPORTANT* Offer 3 possible days/times you could meet.
  • Asking the other party first for their recommendations is adding insult-to-injury. Recall, you’re the one who canceled.
  • You can ask for their suggestions if yours are not workable.
• Rescheduling can be a relief on busy schedules.
  • However, assume it’s an inconvenience.
  • Everyone’s time is valuable...to them. Convey respect of others and their time.
• Turn the negative of rescheduling into a positive.
  • With these steps, you’ll strengthen others’ trust in you and build better relationships.

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