Time is a precious commodity, and coordinating schedules can often feel like a delicate dance. Whether you’re setting up a business meeting, planning a catch-up with friends, or organizing a team brainstorming session, finding the right words to ask about availability can make all the difference. The phrase “What time works best for you?” has become so commonplace that it risks sounding impersonal or robotic. But fear not! There’s a whole world of alternatives waiting to breathe fresh life into your communications.
In this article, we’ll explore 30 creative and effective ways to inquire about someone’s preferred timing. These alternatives will help you strike the perfect balance between professionalism and personality, ensuring your messages stand out in a sea of mundane scheduling requests. From formal business contexts to casual catch-ups with friends, we’ve got you covered with a range of options to suit any scenario.
But why does this matter? Well, the way you phrase your scheduling requests can significantly impact how others perceive you. It demonstrates your communication skills, your respect for others’ time, and your ability to adapt your language to different situations. By mastering these alternatives, you’ll not only make scheduling smoother but also leave a lasting positive impression on your colleagues, clients, and friends.
is it Professional to Say: What time works best for you
While “What time works best for you?” is a commonly used phrase in professional settings, it can sometimes come across as overly casual or lacking in nuance. In formal business contexts, it’s often more appropriate to use alternatives that demonstrate greater consideration for the recipient’s schedule and the nature of the meeting.
However, the phrase remains acceptable for routine interactions or in more relaxed professional environments where directness is valued.
Here are 15 ways to say “What time works best for you”
- When would be most convenient for you?
- Could you suggest a time slot that fits your schedule?
- I’m flexible – what’s your preferred time for this?
- Which time suits you best: morning, afternoon, or evening?
- Is there a particular time slot for this session that would work well for you?
- What would be a suitable time for our appointment?
- I’m eager to meet – what works for you in terms of timing?
- Could you share a few times that suit you for our meeting?
- When would be a suitable time for a brainstorming session?
- I’d value your input – what’s a time that suits you for our discussion?
- Let’s find a time to connect – what works best with your schedule?
- I’m looking forward to our chat – any preferred time slots on your end?
- What’s your availability like for a quick sync-up session?
- I’d like to pencil in a meeting – when are you typically free?
- Could you share your open time slots for next week?
15 more ways to say “What time works best for you”
- When would be an opportune moment for us to discuss this further?
- I’m hoping to carve out some time with you – what does your calendar look like?
- When would be a good time to pick your brain about this?
- I’m looking to block off some time for our meeting – any preferences on your end?
- Let’s sync our calendars – when are you usually available?
- I’d love to pencil you in – any preferred time slots this week?
- When would be an ideal time that suits you for our chat?
- Could you suggest a few time slots for this session that align with your schedule?
- I’m hoping to carve out a convenient time for our meeting – what’s your availability like?
- When would be a suitable time for a brainstorming session on this project?
- I’m flexible – what time suits you for diving into this topic?
- Let’s find a time that works for you to touch base on this – any preferences?
- I’m looking to block off a suitable time for our appointment – when are you typically available?
- What’s your preferred time slot for a quick sync on this project?
- I’d value your insights – when would be a convenient time to explore this further?
30 Alternatives to “What Time Works Best For You”
Here are 30 Alternatives to “What Time Works Best For You”:
1. “When would be most convenient for you?”
The phrase “What Time Works Best For You” puts the focus squarely on the other person’s comfort and availability. It’s perfect for professional settings where you want to show consideration for your colleague’s schedule.
Example scenario (Email):
Subject: Meeting to Discuss Q4 Strategy
Dear Sarah,
I hope this email finds you well. I’d like to schedule a meeting to discuss our Q4 strategy. When would be most convenient for you to sit down and brainstorm? I’m eager to hear your insights on this crucial planning phase.
Best regards,
Alex
2. “Could you suggest a time slot that fits your schedule?”
This option gives the recipient more control over the scheduling process, allowing them to offer times that truly work for them.
Example scenario (In-person conversation):
Jake: “Hey Emma, I’d love to catch up and hear about your recent project. Could you suggest a time slot that fits your schedule for grabbing coffee next week?”
Emma: “That sounds great, Jake! How about Tuesday afternoon around 3 PM?”
3. “I’m flexible – what’s your preferred time for this?”
By stating your flexibility upfront, you’re making it easier for the other person to suggest a time without feeling constrained.
Example scenario (Text message):
You: “Hey Chris! I’m excited about our upcoming study session. I’m flexible – what’s your preferred time for this? I want to make sure we choose a slot when you’re at your sharpest!”
4. “Which time suits you best: morning, afternoon, or evening?”
Offering specific options can help narrow down the possibilities and make decision-making easier for the other person.
Example scenario (Email):
Subject: Fitness Consultation Scheduling
Dear valued client,
Thank you for choosing FitLife Gym for your fitness journey. I’m thrilled to set up your initial consultation. Which time suits you best: morning, afternoon, or evening? Once I know your general preference, I can offer some specific slots.
Looking forward to helping you achieve your fitness goals!
Best,
Trainer Mike
5. “Is there a particular time slot for this session that would work well for you?”
The phrasing “What Time Works Best For You” is excellent for scheduling recurring meetings or sessions, as it implies you’re considering the recipient’s long-term availability.
Example scenario (Video call):
You: “Great progress on the project, team! For our weekly check-ins moving forward, is there a particular time slot for this session that would work well for you all? We want to ensure everyone can consistently attend and contribute.”
6. “What would be a suitable time for our appointment?”
This phrase strikes a balance between formality and friendliness, making it ideal for professional services like medical appointments or consultations.
Example scenario (Phone call):
Receptionist: “Thank you for choosing Bright Smile Dental, Mr. Johnson. Dr. Lee has availability next week for your annual check-up. What would be a suitable time for our appointment? We have slots available on Tuesday morning and Thursday afternoon.”
7. “I’m eager to meet – what works for you in terms of timing?”
This enthusiastic approach conveys your excitement about the meeting while still prioritizing the other person’s schedule.
Example scenario (LinkedIn message):
You: “Hello Lisa, I’m thrilled about the possibility of collaborating on the upcoming charity event. I’m eager to meet – what works for you in terms of timing? I’m looking forward to brainstorming some fundraising ideas!”
8. “Could you share a few times that suit you for our meeting?”
By asking for multiple options, you increase the chances of finding a mutually agreeable time without much back-and-forth.
Example scenario (Email):
Subject: Project Kickoff Meeting
Dear Team,
As we prepare to launch our exciting new project, I’d like to schedule our kickoff meeting. Could you share a few times that suit you for our meeting next week? I’ll compile everyone’s availability and find the best slot for us all.
Looking forward to getting started!
Best regards,
Project Manager Sam
9. “When would be a suitable time for a brainstorming session?”
The phrasing “What Time Works Best For You” is perfect for creative or collaborative meetings, setting the tone for an engaging and productive session.
Example scenario (Slack message):
You: “Hey creative team! 🎨 We need to come up with fresh ideas for the Johnson account. When would be a suitable time for a brainstorming session? Let’s find a time when our creative juices are flowing!”
10. “I’d value your input – what’s a time that suits you for our discussion?”
This approach not only asks for a suitable time but also emphasizes the importance of the other person’s contribution to the conversation.
Example scenario (Email):
Subject: Feedback on New Product Design
Dear Dr. Thompson,
Your expertise in ergonomic design has been invaluable to our product development process. I’d like to discuss the latest prototype with you. I’d value your input – what’s a time that suits you for our discussion? Your insights will be crucial in finalizing the design.
Best regards,
Lead Designer Jamie
11. “Let’s find a time to connect – what works best with your schedule?”
This friendly, collaborative approach works well for both professional and personal contexts, emphasizing a mutual effort to find a suitable time.
Example scenario (Text message):
You: “Hey Zoe! It’s been too long since we caught up. Let’s find a time to connect – what works best with your schedule? I’m free most evenings next week if that helps!”
12. “I’m looking forward to our chat – any preferred time slots on your end?”
This phrasing, “What Time Works Best For You,” expresses enthusiasm for the upcoming conversation while giving the recipient the freedom to suggest times that genuinely work for them.
Example scenario (Email):
Subject: Career Mentoring Session
Dear Mentee,
I hope this email finds you well. I’m excited about our upcoming mentoring session. I’m looking forward to our chat – any preferred time slots on your end? I want to ensure we meet at a time when you’re fresh and ready to dive into your career goals.
Best wishes,
Your Mentor, Rachel
13. “What’s your availability like for a quick sync-up session?”
This casual, tech-savvy phrase is perfect for workplace environments, especially for brief, informal meetings.
Example scenario (Slack message):
You: “Hey team! We need to align on the client presentation for tomorrow. What’s your availability like for a quick sync-up session this afternoon? Just need 15 minutes to make sure we’re all on the same page.”
14. “I’d like to pencil in a meeting – when are you typically free?”
This idiom adds a touch of informality and flexibility to your request, making it feel less demanding.
Example scenario (In-person conversation):
You: “Hi Mark, I’ve been meaning to discuss the new marketing strategy with you. I’d like to pencil in a meeting – when are you typically free? I know things can change quickly, so we can always adjust if needed.”
15. “Could you share your open time slots for next week?”
The direct approach of asking “What Time Works Best For You” works well in professional settings where efficiency is key, allowing the recipient to offer multiple options at once.
Example scenario (Email):
Subject: Quarterly Performance Review
Dear Team Leads,
It’s time for our quarterly performance reviews. Could you share your open time slots for next week? I’ll do my best to accommodate everyone’s schedules for these important discussions.
Best regards,
HR Manager Priya
16. “When would be an opportune moment for us to discuss this further?”
This more formal phrasing, “What Time Works Best For You,” is suitable for high-stakes business communications or when addressing senior colleagues or clients.
Example scenario (Email):
Subject: Proposal for Strategic Partnership
Dear Mr. Yamamoto,
Thank you for expressing interest in a strategic partnership with our firm. I believe there’s significant potential for mutual growth. When would be an opportune moment for us to discuss this further? I’m eager to explore how we can align our strengths for maximum impact.
Sincerely,
CEO Sarah Chen
17. “I’m hoping to carve out some time with you – what does your calendar look like?”
This colloquial phrase adds a personal touch to your request, making it feel less like a formal scheduling task and more like a friendly arrangement.
Example scenario (Text message):
You: “Hey bestie! 👋 I’m hoping to carve out some time with you this weekend – what does your calendar look like? I’ve got some big news to share and could use your advice!”
18. “When would be a good time to pick your brain about this?”
This informal phrase is great for seeking advice or input in a casual, friendly manner.
Example scenario (LinkedIn message):
You: “Hi Alex, I’ve been following your insightful posts on AI in marketing. When would be a good time to pick your brain about this? I’d love to get your thoughts on how we could implement some of these strategies in our upcoming campaign.”
19. “I’m looking to block off some time for our meeting – any preferences on your end?”
The phrase “What Time Works Best For You,” often used in professional settings, conveys that you’re serious about setting aside dedicated time for the conversation.
Example scenario (Email):
Subject: Annual Strategy Planning Session
Dear Leadership Team,
As we approach the end of the fiscal year, it’s crucial that we align on our strategy for the coming year. I’m looking to block off some time for our meeting – any preferences on your end? Given the importance of this session, I suggest we plan for a full day if possible.
Looking forward to your input,
CFO David
20. “Let’s sync our calendars – when are you usually available?”
This tech-savvy phrase is perfect for modern workplace communications, especially when dealing with remote or distributed teams.
Example scenario (Slack message):
You: “Morning team! 🌞 With our new project kicking off, I think it’s time we established a regular check-in. Let’s sync our calendars – when are you usually available? I’m thinking a weekly 30-minute slot would be ideal to keep everyone aligned.”
Pro Tips: When it comes to mastering the art of scheduling, the most crucial paragraph in this article is the one that emphasizes the importance of flexibility and consideration. Here are some pro tips to elevate your scheduling game:
- Always offer multiple options: This increases the chances of finding a mutually agreeable time without extensive back-and-forth.
- Be mindful of time zones: If you’re scheduling across different regions, always specify the time zone or use a tool that automatically adjusts for different locations.
- Provide context: Briefly explain the purpose of the meeting. This helps the recipient prioritize and allocate the appropriate amount of time.
- Be flexible: If possible, offer both video call and in-person options, or be open to rescheduling if the initial times don’t work.
- Follow up: If you don’t hear back within a reasonable timeframe, don’t be afraid to send a gentle reminder.
- Use scheduling tools: Platforms like Calendly or Doodle can streamline the process, especially when coordinating with multiple people.
- Respect boundaries: Avoid scheduling meetings outside of standard work hours unless it’s absolutely necessary or previously agreed upon.
21. “I’d love to pencil you in – any preferred time slots this week?”
This casual, friendly phrase combines a fun idiom with a professional touch, making it suitable for various contexts.
Example scenario (Text message):
You: “Hey Jamie! I’ve been dying to hear about your new job. I’d love to pencil you in for a catch-up coffee – any preferred time slots this week? My treat! ☕”
22. “When would be an ideal time that suits you for our chat?”
This phrasing puts emphasis on the recipient’s convenience while also specifying the nature of the interaction.
Example scenario (Email):
Subject: Discussing Your Recent Customer Feedback
Dear Valued Customer,
We greatly appreciate the feedback you provided about our service. To better understand your experience and how we can improve, I’d like to schedule a brief call. When would be an ideal time that suits you for our chat? Your insights are invaluable to us.
Best regards,
Customer Experience Manager, Lisa
23. “Could you suggest a few time slots for this session that align with your schedule?”
This option gives the recipient control while also implying that you’re flexible and willing to accommodate their preferences.
Example scenario (LinkedIn message):
You: “Hello Dr. Patel, I’m excited about the possibility of collaborating on the upcoming research project. Could you suggest a few time slots for this session that align with your schedule? I’m eager to discuss our potential synergies in depth.”
24. “I’m hoping to carve out a convenient time for our meeting – what’s your availability like?”
This phrase combines a casual idiom with a more formal request, striking a balance that works well in many professional settings.
Example scenario (Slack message):
You: “Hi team! 👋 As we wrap up this quarter, I’m hoping to carve out a convenient time for our performance review meetings. What’s your availability like next week? I want to ensure everyone has a chance to discuss their achievements and goals.”
25. “When would be a suitable time for a brainstorming session on this project?”
This phrasing is perfect for creative or collaborative meetings, setting expectations for an engaging and productive discussion.
Example scenario (Email):
Subject: New Product Development Brainstorm
Dear Innovation Team,
Our market research has revealed some exciting opportunities for a new product line. When would be a suitable time for a brainstorming session on this project? I’m looking forward to tapping into our collective creativity to generate some groundbreaking ideas.
Best,
Product Development Lead, Alex
26. “I’m flexible – what time suits you for diving into this topic?”
By stating your flexibility upfront and using an active verb like “diving,” you create a sense of enthusiasm and adaptability.
Example scenario (Text message):
You: “Hey Sam! I heard you’ve become quite the expert in sustainable gardening. I’m flexible – what time suits you for diving into this topic? I’d love to pick your brain about starting my own eco-friendly veggie patch! 🥕🌱”
27. “Let’s find a time that works for you to touch base on this – any preferences?”
This collaborative approach emphasizes finding a mutually agreeable time while giving the recipient the freedom to express their preferences.
Example scenario (Email):
Subject: Quarterly Budget Review
Dear Finance Team,
It’s time for our quarterly budget review. Let’s find a time that works for you to touch base on this – any preferences? I want to ensure we have everyone’s input on our financial performance and future projections.
Best regards,
CFO Maria
28. “I’m looking to block off a suitable time for our appointment – when are you typically available?”
This phrase is excellent for scheduling more formal or important meetings, as it implies setting aside dedicated time.
Example scenario (Phone call):
Receptionist: “Good morning, Mr. Thompson. Dr. Lee would like to discuss your recent test results in person. I’m looking to block off a suitable time for our appointment – when are you typically available? We want to ensure you have ample time to ask any questions you may have.”
29. “What’s your preferred time slot for a quick sync on this project?”
This option works well for brief, informal meetings, especially in fast-paced work environments.
Example scenario (Slack message):
You: “Hey Sarah! 👋 The client just sent over some feedback on the latest designs. What’s your preferred time slot for a quick sync on this project? I think we can address their concerns with a few tweaks.”
30. “I’d value your insights – when would be a convenient time to explore this further?”
This phrasing not only asks for a suitable time but also emphasizes the importance of the other person’s contribution, making them more likely to prioritize the meeting.
Example scenario (Email):
Subject: Invitation to Guest Lecture
Dear Professor Johnson,
Your recent publication on climate change mitigation strategies has sparked great interest in our department. I’d value your insights – when would be a convenient time to explore the possibility of you giving a guest lecture to our graduate students? Your expertise would be invaluable in enriching our curriculum.
Best regards,
Department Chair, Dr. Emily Chen
Conclusion
Mastering the art of scheduling isn’t just about finding a mutually agreeable time—it’s about fostering connections and showing respect for others’ time and preferences. By expanding your repertoire of phrases beyond the mundane “What time works best for you?”, you open doors to more engaging, personalized interactions.
Whether you’re penciling in a casual coffee date or blocking off time for a high-stakes business meeting, the way you phrase your request can set the tone for the entire interaction. Remember, each situation calls for a nuanced approach, and your choice of words can demonstrate your adaptability, consideration, and professionalism.
Emily Olivia is an experienced writer specializing in grammar and English language topics. With a passion for clarity and precision, she shares valuable insights on synonyms, grammar rules, and writing tips to help readers enhance their language skills on Grammar Path.
