How to handle no shows

Angie met Juan at a networking event. In order to set up a time to meet one on one, she passed on a good networking opportunity. Then Juan canceled their one on one at the last minute. Angie was not happy.

What could Angie say to Juan?

She could ignore it, send a passive-aggressive note, or even give him a piece of her mind – all of which will result in more resentment…inside her.

Or he could follow the Me>You>Us model and first check in with herself. She may be able to articulate that she’s frustrated because her need for respect wasn’t being met.

Next, she could not presume she knows what’s going on with Juan, that he’s a jerk or insensitive, or anything. She may even ask him.

Finally, she could express his feelings and needs followed by a clear request.

“Juan, I have to let you know I was frustrated when you canceled last minute because I had given up a good opportunity to meet with you. I’d like to try again, and if you do too, I want to ask that you give me at least 2 days’ heads up if you’re going to cancel again.”