In 2009, Michelle Obama was chastised for hugging the queen, and basketball superstar LeBron James was called out in 2014 for putting his arm around Kate Middleton after the Cleveland Cavaliers won a game against the Brooklyn Nets. There is a nuanced royal protocol in place as a way to ensure universal respect for Queen Elizabeth II and the rest of her relatives, and although it's rather simple, people still manage to break it all the time. Be explicit about the fact that you're looking for coaching, guidance, and yes, a connection, but not an immediate job offer.If you've ever been nervous about meeting your significant others's parents, it's nothing compared to the amount of pressure that comes with greeting a member of the British royal family. That's not always a bad thing, but if an employer isn't currently looking to hire, it can be a turnoff. Oftentimes, job-seekers use a 'mentorship' or 'informational interview' approach to get their foot in the door. Be clear that you're asking for a mentorship, not a job.

Emails asking me for a nebulous 'informational interview' fill me with dread emails that describe an authentic passion for writing, editing, and a career in digital media are much more likely to get a response from me. Express interest in the mentor's field in your initial email.Suggest a meeting at or near the mentor's office, give multiple times to choose from, and specify how long you think the meeting will take. Keep your requests reasonable, and try to make it as easy on your possible mentor as you can.A potential mentor is much more likely to want to invest time in you if you've begun to build a connection with them and can make your case in person. Try to arrange an in-person meeting before you make your full mentorship pitch.

Whether you have a mutual acquaintance or you just found them on LinkedIn, context is important in getting them to reply. Also add how you received their contact info and why you're reaching out.

If the potential mentor is someone you haven't met before, clearly explain the connection.

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