The Etiquette of Sharing Your Calendar Link

Calendar tools like Calendly or Acuity have become part of the way many people do business. They can be incredibly useful, but lately there has been a trend that feels a little off. More and more, when a person reaches out to someone and asks about availability, instead of working together to find a time, they get a reply that says, “here’s my calendar link, go book me.”

To be honest, that can come across as dismissive. When someone is soliciting this person’s time and then turns around and makes them do the work of scheduling, it shifts the dynamic. Instead of feeling like peers working together, it puts one person in a higher position and the other in the role of trying to gain access. On top of that, asking people to click and look for openings usually lowers the chance that the meeting will actually happen.

Now, that doesn’t mean calendar tools don’t have their place, they absolutely do. In fact, they can become a lifesaver in the right situations. If two people have gone back and forth two or three times trying to align schedules and it’s just not working, that’s the perfect moment to say, “would it be easier if I send you my calendar link so you can pick a time that works?” At that point, the headache of back and forth emails is removed, and the other person is given flexibility.

Another way calendar links work well is when they’re built into a website. At Maranta Copy Co, our Contact page includes a direct Calendly link. This allows potential clients to visit our site and instantly book a new client meeting without needing to email first. In that case, it’s not disrespectful, it’s convenient. The clients came looking for a way to connect, and the calendar gives them that direct access.

So the bottom line is that using a calendar link can be a really beneficial tool, but it matters how and when it’s used. If someone reaches out, work with them to set a time. Save the link for when coordination has already been attempted and a faster option is needed, or keep it front and center on a website so new clients can find them. Behind every meeting request is a person who values connection. Calendar tools can support that when we lead with consideration and use the tools wisely, making scheduling simple without losing the personal side of the conversation.