We all need help at some time. Don't be afraid to ask for it. As I like to say, don't say no for the other person.
Successful people rarely reach the top without a lot of help along the way. The ability - and willingness - to ask for help is one trait that really stands out among those who are truly committed to success.
I can personally attest to the necessity of asking for help. When I was a struggling 26-year-old with the dream of running my own factory, I quickly learned that there were plenty of people whose advice and help would move me toward my goal - but only if I asked. And to my surprise, they were eager to share their wisdom, help me steer clear of potential bankrupting mistakes and nudge me toward success.
As one who is often on the other side now, I appreciate the opportunity to advise and mentor entrepreneurs and emerging talents. When you are seeking advice from the experts, here are some items to consider:
Don't waste their time. Once they've agreed to help, get to the point quickly. Don't spend an hour explaining your business plan or the plot of your novel. Plan what you want to ask so you can make a clear, succinct request. Take notes so they know you value their input.
Get specific. Don't just ask, "What should I do?" Imagine you can ask only one question (because that may be the case). Identify the most important issue you're facing that your expert is qualified to address and build your question around that. Be prepared in case you get a chance to ask a follow-up or move on to another subject. Don't assume you'll have all the time in the world to get to what you need.
Save one general question for the end. The corollary to the rule above is to save a few minutes to ask something like, "Is there anything else you'd recommend?" once you've gotten the answer to your essential question. This gives the expert a chance to expand on whatever information he or she has shared and provides the opportunity to start building more of a relationship than a one-time transaction.
Give people options. When you approach an expert, ask for permission to probe his or her mind before starting to fire off questions. Give the other person some control over how to respond. It's polite and shows your consideration for the expert's time and workload.
Offer something in return. You're asking for a favor. Be ready to reciprocate in some form. This demonstrates your professionalism and commitment to building relationships; it shows that you're not just grabbing information and leaving.
Mackay's Moral: The fool asks the wise for advice, but the wise ask the experienced.
Harvey Mackay is the author of the New York Times best-seller "Swim With the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive." To send him a question or comment, go to
tulsaworld.com/mackayfeedback.
Original Print Headline: Seek out help to avoid costly mistakes
Column - Harvey MacKay
No one ever accused Larry Winget of mincing words. Larry, who is often referred to as the Pitbull of Personal Development, wouldn't take kindly to it anyway.
I WILL GO to the ends of the earth to find ways to improve communication and salesmanship, so I was delighted to be invited to Israel in July to be briefed by the creme-de-la-creme of Israel's intelligence community.
