David McErlain: I sent my first outreach and I want to go over the final version and workshop a follow up in case she doesn’t respond due to the timing.

• Ground yourself in the reality that delayed replies rarely reflect your value and often mirror timing, priorities and holiday chaos rather than mistakes or missteps.
• Use AI only to question assumptions and tighten clarity while keeping your own voice, emotional intent and human connection as the driving force of every outreach message.
• Clarify the value you bring by exploring their challenges, goals and upcoming needs so the conversation becomes about helping them and not just seeking opportunities.
• Draft follow-ups before sending outreach so you can reply quickly, confidently and clearly whenever they respond. 
• Prepare conversations that explore how teams are structured, how roles operate and where your skills could be valuable rather than asking directly if they’re hiring.
• Shape your questions with clear intentions so the advocate becomes the hero who connects you with people who benefit from your strengths.

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