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Still, target is your boss so you want to be a little tactful. Here is how you might write your close:
"By starting immediately on this project, I estimate we can have positive results to show Executive Board at their next meeting in June. I have an open schedule tomorrow afternoon and could meet with you to discuss details. If you are available, have Alice call me about a time that would be convenient for you."
Notice how cleverly you have constructed your close. You have inserted a note of urgency without being demanding. You have also lifted burden of response from target and placed it on someone else. This could be a secretary or assistant.
The easier you make it for a target to respond, quicker you'll get that reply.
You could also take necessity of responding completely off target's shoulder by volunteering to do follow- up.
"I'll call you tomorrow morning, after you've had an opportunity to read through my proposal. We can then set up a time to discuss details."
Notice that you haven't even suggested that your proposal might not be accepted. From a psychological standpoint, this makes refusal, if there is one, more difficult. Overcoming a positive with a negative generally takes extra effort.
Writing a close for Imcoms going to associates or subordinates, requires a bit different approach. I'll cover that type of close in future Imcom coaching articles.
Just remember, no matter who you are talking to, spell out exactly what action you want taken. And try to insert a note of urgency. Faint heart never won a fair response. (Or, something like that.)
Doug C. Grant, Dean of Distinctive Business Writing, is the author of ‘HOW TO MOVE FROM CUBICLE TO CORNER OFFICE WITH THE SECRETS OF POWER WRITING. A FREE preview of the book plus details on receiving a FREE Blue Pencil Edit for one of your own imcoms is available by e-mailing: mailto:edit@newbieclub.com