You Had Me At: “Happy To Screen”

I recently received an email that started, "Hello Rory. I saw on your blog that you're interested in mycology. As a fellow amateur mushroom hunter, I thought you'd appreciate that I almost fell off a log this weekend trying to identify a chanterelle." He went on to introduce himself properly, but that one sentence told me almost everything I needed to know. We hadn't even met, and I was already smiling.

I know the word "screening" sounds horribly clinical, like something you do to ore deposits, not people. But think of it less like a job interview and more like finding the unmarked door to an incredible cocktail bar. The effort of entry is a prelude to the quality of the experience.

Of course, there's the safety layer.. the non-negotiable foundation that ensures everyone is who they say they are. But beyond that, it’s a simple vibe check. It’s my way of filtering for the men who see this as a human connection, not just a transaction.

It’s also a simple professional standard, much like in any other bespoke service. A top-tier law firm requires a retainer; a five-star hotel requires a credit card to hold a room. These aren’t hurdles; they are the established methods of securing professional time and ensuring everyone is serious. This is our version of that.

The beautiful irony is how much this benefits you. When you take a few moments to introduce yourself properly, it means our time together begins on a note of mutual respect. The trust is established. We can skip the awkward preliminaries and get straight to the good part, the actual connection.

So, no, screening isn’t a wall designed to keep you out. It’s the velvet rope that ensures the company inside is worth keeping. It’s the quiet knock on the unmarked door that leads to a much, much better room.

P.S. All in all, the mushroom guy was a pretty fun-gi. Yes, I just said that. No, I will not be taking questions at this time.