1. It’s short and what he’s requesting is clear. No “let’s jump on the phone for 10 minutes; it’ll be worth your time.”
2. He made an impression in our initial meeting, and he hasn’t irritated me with zero-content “keeping in touch” e-mails. He hasn’t worn out his inbox welcome.
3. He makes it clear that he’s doing his part and has explored other avenues before asking for my help.
4. He used the executive recruiter referral trick.
5. He makes it clear that it’s OK if I can’t help or if I’m too committed elsewhere.
via fourhourworkweek