How to Ask for Help [and Get It]

Is there an actual art or science of asking for help that both makes you feel more comfortable and confident, and also increases the likelihood that you’ll actually get exactly what you ask for??

Simple answer, yes!

In fact, there are a number of specific things to both consider and set up before the ask, and then say when it comes time to actually “do” the ask. By the same token, there are specific things not to do and say, if you want any chance of both preserving your credibility and/or status, and also inspiring others to say yes.

Last week, in part 1 of this topic on the SPARKED podcast, we explored the psychology of why people don’t ask for help, especially in professional settings, and how to shift your underlying psychology. We uncovered a lot in that episode about fear, hyper-independency, and, of course, the benefits of asking for help, which you can tune into here. And so this week, we're back with another deep dive into the how part of the equation!

Now it's time to apply what you've learned, get bold, and finally, take advantage of the resources that are all around you — even if the thought still feels intimidating. In today’s SPARKED Podcast, we walk through a series of critical strategies we like to call the art of the ask. We’re getting granular, and offering specific steps and tactics, so you know exactly what to say and how, and what not to say, and why.

And, joining me again for this Part 2 on the art of the ask is SPARKED Braintrust advisor and founder of the consultancy firm Corporate Alley Cat Deborah Owens.?

Remember, asking for and getting the help that you really need is a muscle that requires training, and you can get started with the help of supportive guidelines and a powerful shift in approach to your ask that Deborah and I tease out in today's episode. From sharing the keys to the 'big ask' that changed Deborah's career trajectory to practical steps to help you formulate your own life-changing request, we're offering up all of it and more this week!

Tune into this episode now by hitting play on the player below, or find it on your favorite podcast app.

And, remember, we all have a unique imprint for work that makes us come alive: your Sparketype?. When you discover yours, everything - your entire work-life journey and even parts of your personal life and relationships - begin to make sense, and you feel better equipped to find, do, or create work that (finally) sparks you!

To learn your Sparketype, check out the free Sparketype? Assessment.

AND - if you'd like to submit your own questions for consideration for a future episode of SPARKED, you can do it here now.