F—Lab Editorial
A Better First Message
Give someone an idea to respond to, not a job.
Most first messages aren't rude. They're just empty. A stranger sends “Hi”, and suddenly the other person has to invent the conversation.
Try something specific and easy to decline: “Which is a better first meeting: a night walk or a long conversation over wine?” Or simply comment on something in the person's profile that genuinely interested you.
A good invitation gives the other person space. It doesn't demand a photograph, a location or an immediate answer. Silence is an answer, too.
Try a question instead of a pitch
“If we had five minutes to get to know each other, what should I ask you?” That's more interesting than asking for a number.