Save Time, Stress Less: The Scheduling Tool Every Prevention Leader Needs
Let’s talk about something that might seem small, but can make a huge difference in your day-to-day work: scheduling.
If your inbox is full of “What time works for you?” emails… or you’ve double-booked yourself (again)… or you’re avoiding meetings altogether because finding a time feels harder than hosting one - you’re not alone.
That’s why I love Calendly. It’s one of the simplest tools I use, and it’s been a game-changer for my calendar, my stress levels, and my ability to show up for people well.
Why Calendly?
Calendly is an online scheduling tool that lets people book time with you based on the availability you set. No back-and-forth. No confusion. Just a clean, easy way to get on each other’s calendars.
Here’s what I love about it:
It saves time. Once it’s set up, all you have to do is send a link. That’s it.
It reduces overwhelm. No more juggling emails, texts, and sticky notes trying to remember who needs what.
It creates boundaries. You choose when you're available - and Calendly helps protect that time.
It feels professional. Whether you're working with youth, stakeholders, or grant partners, it sends a message: “I respect your time, and I’ve made space for this.”
It automatically sends reminders (email, calendar, or even texts). I get a lot of feedback that the DJC community loves receiving the reminders!
Who It’s For
If you lead a coalition, run a program, or just want to stay sane while juggling all the hats you wear - this tool is for you. Even if you're not “techy,” I promise this one’s easy.
The Free Plan Is Solid
Calendly offers a great free plan to get started. You don’t need to upgrade right away (or ever) unless you want to access some of the more advanced features like multiple event types, workflows, or integrations. But for most prevention leaders, the free plan is more than enough to get going and see immediate benefits.
How to Set It Up
Here’s a quick overview to get started:
Go to www.calendly.com and create a free account.
Set your availability - choose the days and times you're open for meetings.
Create your event type - for example, a 30-minute Zoom call.
Connect your calendar - Google, Outlook, or whatever you use, so it auto-checks for conflicts.
Share your link - copy and paste it into emails, newsletters, or your email signature.
That’s it. Seriously.
Want to See It In Action?
Here’s my Calendly link if you want to take a peek at how it looks once it’s set up.
Bottom line? Calendly lets you focus on what matters most - building relationships, doing good work, and keeping your brain out of calendar chaos.
More tech tips like this coming soon. You’ve got this - and you don’t have to do it alone!
Keep rockin’,
Dave
