We’ve all encountered situations where reaching a desired prospect feels like trying to find a Tasmanian tiger – elusive and challenging. Here’s a workaround to consider: if direct contact seems unattainable for various reasons, try approaching a manager in a different department who might be acquainted with the person you’re trying to reach.

Initiate the conversation by introducing yourself, your organisation, and how your products or services benefit companies similar to theirs. Express uncertainty about the appropriate contact within their organisation and ask for guidance on the best person to speak to.

Chances are, they might suggest the very person you’ve been struggling to reach. Gratefully acknowledge this information, send a follow-up email to initiate communication with this newfound contact. Then, after a week of no response from your intended contact, reach out to your new connection, kindly asking for their assistance in connecting you with the person you originally sought.

This approach not only broadens your network within the organisation but also provides an alternative route to engage your desired prospect indirectly through a colleague in another department.