Tips on contacting a BGO

[RagingBull]

My BGO has been unresponsive for about a week now. I understand a BGO is a volunteer position, but I was wondering when it would be appropriate to follow up again? Many thanks in advance for any advice or guidance.

 

[Vegas72]

Follow up, my son just sent a polite follow up about 4 days after his initial introduction.

 

[Outofmyelement]

My daughter is trying to be patient , but it’s been over a month and no response from her BGO. She sent a follow up email a two days ago.

 

[Kierkegaard]

How far into your application are you? Back when I was applying, my BGO would not speak to me until the rest of my application materials were already submitted.

Also, it depends what you sent. Was this just an introduction, or did you have some action items that you need his or her assistance with. If it’s the former, I don’t think it’s necessary to reach out again in the immediate future. In the professional world often you won’t get a response to an email unless there really is a need for one, just because people are so busy. I’d give it at least another week unless you do have a time sensitive question.

 

[RagingBull]

How far into your application are you? Back when I was applying, my BGO would not speak to me until the rest of my application materials were already submitted.

Also, it depends what you sent. Was this just an introduction, or did you have some action items that you need his or her assistance with. If it’s the former, I don’t think it’s necessary to reach out again in the immediate future. In the professional world often you won’t get a response to an email unless there really is a need for one, just because people are so busy. I’d give it at least another week unless you do have a time sensitive question.

It’s a question about listing extracurriculars, it’s not time sensitive, but it’s not an introduction either.

 

[Don't Give Up the Ship]

BGO's should respond in a reasonable amount of time (a month is not reasonable). Unfortunately some BGOs are not that responsive, some are. I respond within a day or two...even if its a short reply. Part of the BGO responsibility is to provide guidance. If a BGO is unresponsive there could be e mail or other issues. Don't be wary of reaching out to the respective Area Coordinator (AC) regarding the issue if it is a month or more.

 

[Old Navy BGO]

How far into your application are you? Back when I was applying, my BGO would not speak to me until the rest of my application materials were already submitted.

> Please don't consider this the norm. Don't Give Up is correct, part of our job is to be available to answer questions. That said, don't expect instant gratification and response within days - particularly during the summer. While I try to treat all my Candidates like any other client I have and respond (even if short) within 24 hours, I know several very good BGO's that travel a bit (especially pilots) and may not get back to the computer on a daily basis.

There are many threads on SAF addressing the issue. A couple tips. If email doesn't work, try calling. If you don't hear in a week or so, you can reach out to the Area Coordinator. (All Area Coordinators are identified at the USNA.edu website).