When you phone hiring authorities or insiders to ask for face-to-face meetings, you will inevitably run into objections. The most common three are:

1. I’m too busy. I don’t have time to meet with you.
2. We’re not hiring. We don’t need anyone right now.
3. Send me a (another) resume and we can perhaps discuss it then.

Here are some scripts that you can use or adapt to counter these types of objections.

1. I’m too busy.

• You know, I could help you with that. Can we meet briefly so I can tell you how?
• It will only take a minute. I’d be happy to meet you anytime you say.
• I’d be happy to meet with you early, late or on a weekend if you’d like. I would never want to interfere with your normal workday.
• I’d just like you to look at my resume and see if you know anybody who might be interested in someone with my background. I promise it will only take a moment.
• I’ll meet you after work and buy you a drink, if you’d look at my background and give me any tips or advice you have. What do you think? You name the place and time.

2. We’re not hiring.

• Even if you’re not hiring now, would you be willing to meet with me for a few moments? If we can establish mutual interest, something may well open up sooner or later. Wouldn’t you like to have a qualified candidate in the wings in case something develops? You wouldn’t have to launch a from-scratch search.
• I understand that. I’d still like to meet with you briefly. Even though you don’t need anyone now, I’d like you to know what I have to offer. Then if something opens up, perhaps you’ll think of me.
• Even if you don’t anticipate an opening, would you be willing to meet with me anyway? I’d love to hear what ideas or tips you have for me? And perhaps you’ll think of a colleague, friend or acquaintance who I might talk to. I promise I won’t take more than five minutes of your time. Can we set a time during the day, or would you prefer I come after hours?
• I’d still like to meet with you briefly. Perhaps you’ll have a referral, lead or some buzz that could be helpful to me, and I’d really appreciate a moment of your time.
• Oh, I’m not asking for a job! I just want a moment of your time, since you know the industry (field, company, etc.), to see if you have any leads, ideas or referrals for me. It will only take a moment.
• I’d still like to meet with you briefly. I’ve been meeting with others in the field lately, and perhaps some of what I’ve learned could be of benefit to you. I’d be happy to share with you what I’ve learned, if you would share with me any leads or referrals you may have.

3. Send me your resume.

• I’d be happy to send you my resume. But to expedite things, let me tell you what’s on it. Why don’t we set up a very brief meeting, and I’ll bring you a copy in person.
• What would you like to know, Mr. Jones? I’d be happy to tell you right now.
• I did send it to you, but know emails get deleted and letters get rerouted. Let me tell you what it said. I’m the one who …
• Let me email (text, fax, etc.) it to you right now, Howard. We can discuss it, or I’ll call you right back.

This is important. Despite the title of this post, you don’t have to actually overcome the objection. You just have to keep the conversation going. Stress that you only want a few minutes of your contact’s time. Be very clear that you will not be a nuisance or time zapper, and that you will meet with the contact at his or her convenience. Then go right back to asking for an appointment. “Would you be available for such a briefly meeting next Wednesday, or would later in the week be better?”

Practice overcoming or countering objections with someone who is a job search accountability partner or support person. Of course, practicing with a professional career coach can be very helpful. You will not succeed every time. But sometimes, it’s going to mean the difference between turning away and pushing through.

Photo: JD Hancock