Handling pick your brain requests over text can be a delicate matter. On one hand, you want to be helpful and share your expertise, but on the other hand, you don’t want to commit to an open-ended conversation that can drain your time and energy.

Before we dive into strategies for handling these requests, let’s acknowledge that saying no or setting boundaries is okay. It’s essential to prioritize your own needs and allocate your time wisely. Here are some example responses to help you navigate these situations:

Hi, thanks for reaching out! I’d love to help, but I’m currently overwhelmed with commitments. Can we schedule a call to discuss this further?

When someone asks to pick your brain, they often expect a quick chat or advice over text. However, this can lead to a back-and-forth conversation that takes up a significant amount of time. By suggesting a call, you’re setting a clear boundary and allowing yourself time to prepare for the conversation.

Hey, I’d be happy to help. Can you please share more about what’s on your mind and what you hope to get out of our conversation? This will help me better understand your needs and provide more focused guidance.

Asking clarifying questions helps you understand the person’s motivations and goals. It also gives you an opportunity to gauge the level of effort required to provide meaningful advice. If their request is too vague or open-ended, you can politely decline or suggest alternative resources.

I appreciate your interest in learning from me! However, my schedule is pretty packed right now. Would you be interested in a quick 15-minute call, or would you like some recommended resources to get started?

In this response, you’re acknowledging their interest while setting clear expectations about your availability. The offer to recommend resources shows that you’re willing to help, but only within the constraints of your schedule.

I’m not comfortable with an open-ended conversation over text. Would you like to schedule a call or meeting to discuss this further?

This response is direct and assertive, yet still polite. It clearly communicates your boundaries and encourages the person to respect your time.

I’m happy to help, but I need to prioritize my current commitments. Can we touch base in a few weeks when my schedule clears up?

By mentioning your commitments, you’re implying that you have more important tasks to attend to. This response also leaves the door open for future conversations, but on your terms.

I’d be happy to help with a specific question or topic. Can you please share what’s on your mind, and I’ll do my best to provide guidance?

This response sets a clear scope for the conversation and incentivizes the person to be more focused in their request. By offering guidance on a specific topic, you’re controlling the narrative and ensuring that the conversation remains productive.

I appreciate your interest in learning from me! However, I’ve found that I need to prioritize my own projects and commitments. Maybe we can connect on social media or through a blog post in the future?

In this response, you’re thanking the person for their interest while politely declining their request. By suggesting alternative ways to connect, you’re still showing that you’re open to helping, but on your own terms.

I’m not the best person to help with that. Would you like a referral to someone who might be a better fit?

Sometimes, it’s okay to acknowledge that you’re not the best person to help. By offering a referral, you’re still providing value and showing that you’re willing to help, even if it’s not directly.

Hey, I’m not comfortable with back-and-forth conversations over text. Would you like to schedule a call or meeting to discuss this further?

This response is clear and direct, communicating your boundaries while still showing willingness to help.

By using these example responses, you’ll be better equipped to handle pick your brain requests over text. Remember to prioritize your own needs, set clear boundaries, and offer alternative solutions that work for you. In doing so, you’ll maintain a healthy work-life balance and ensure that your time and energy are allocated wisely.

In conclusion, remember that it’s okay to say no or set boundaries when someone asks to pick your brain over text. By being clear, direct, and polite, you can maintain your sanity and focus on what truly matters.

Be kind ❤