Try this
- Identify an off-work window or an asynchronous format. Avoid interpreting an online indicator as permission to interrupt.
- For genuine scheduling questions, put the decision needed in one message so it can be handled when practical.
A worked example
“I know you’re online for work. Could you let me know after you finish whether Sunday’s call still fits?”
An invented example to adapt, not a real exchange or a script you have to follow.
Before you leave it here
If work runs late, adjust the personal plan explicitly. Do not ask someone to prove their workload by sharing meetings or screens.