How do you prefer to book meetings?

How do you prefer to book a business meeting with someone outside of your company? The answer might tell you a little about how you build business relationships.

A long time ago in the late 90's (OK, not that long ago), the common way to book a meeting was to get out your appointment book while on the phone with someone to compare open times. This book (often seen in old movies or shows on the desk of a deceased suspect) was the best and only way to keep track of meetings. It allowed for a very direct and personal experience with each other that built a trusting relationship. This process resulted in fewer cancelations both because of that personal connection and because it would require a live phone call to cancel which would likely need to include a legitimate explanation. The advantage is that by providing that explanation on the phone provided an opportunity to build the trust and relationship.?

More recently, people started to rely on digital calendars where they can book time electronically and invite each other via email. In this new method, there are inevitably multiple back and forth messages to arrive at a time that works on both calendars, which was then booked in the electronic system. This new way of interacting seems more efficient because it can be done through typing a quick response, instead of talking on the phone, but it can take longer and is less personal. Ultimately this results in more cancellations because it is easier to just click a button and type an apology than being forced to make a live phone call. Without the live interactions, the only way to build an initial relationship is through the messaging.

One of the newer options for booking time, is an extension of the electronic calendar but removes the back-and-forth messaging by providing a link to book a meeting directly on a calendar. This is quicker (great for busy people who book LOTS of meetings), more efficient and removes any frivolous discussion around availability by making the whole operation more transactional in nature. The tradeoff is that there is minimal personal interactions and little or no opportunity to build any trust or relationship prior to the actual meeting.?

There are many ways to book a meeting with someone. Each has its advantages and pitfalls, but hopefully this article helps shine some light on the choices and why they might be used.

So, which is your preference in booking meetings?