The greater the ask, the more important it is to make it in person.
I have flown to meet with people just to ask them one question.
Doing so conveyed a sense of significance.
It also demonstrated how much they were valued.
And it gave me a sense of their willingness and understanding of the prospect.
Now, I may have received the same answer if I hadn’t met with them.
But I’m positive that every time I’ve done this, both sides are more confident in the answer that’s given.
Of course, meeting in person isn’t always practical.
But you should always strive to show someone how important the ask is for both of you, rather than just tell them.