The Power of the Ask: Why BOLD Requests Open BIG Doors (I Dare You!)

Have you ever hesitated to ask for something you really wanted or needed? Maybe it was a promotion, a speaking gig, or even help with a big project. Fear, self-doubt, or the dreaded “What if they say no?” might have held you back. But here’s the truth: the opportunities you don’t ask for are the ones you’ll never get.

? ? ?The Power of the Ask is real, and bold requests open doors to places you never imagined. As someone who’s gone from homelessness to working with companies like Google and LinkedIn, I know firsthand how asking the right questions—and asking them BOLDLY—can change the game. P.S. Check out our latest Savvy Ladies , "Power of the Ask" Podcast: https://www.savvyladies.org/podcast-power-of-the-ask/

And now, let's get BOLD in our asks by reading more below!

Why Most People Don’t Ask

Before we dive into the how, let’s talk about the why. Why do so many of us hold back?

• Fear of Rejection: The idea of hearing “no” can feel like a personal failure.
• Imposter Syndrome: You might think, Who am I to ask for this?
• Conditioning: Many women, in particular, are taught to wait their turn or be grateful for what they have.

But here’s the reality: a “no” doesn’t define your worth. And the right opportunity won’t come to you unless you make the first move.

The Bold Ask: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Get Clear on What You Want

You can’t make a bold request if you’re unclear about your goals.

Ask Yourself:

• What is the exact outcome I want?
• Who has the power to say “yes”?
• Why does this matter to me?

Pro Tip: Be specific. Instead of saying, “I want more visibility,” say, “I want to speak at this year’s Women in Business Summit.”

2. Craft Your Case

A bold ask isn’t just about confidence—it’s about clarity and preparation. Make it easy for the other person to say yes.

How to Build Your Case:

• Highlight your value: What do you bring to the table?
• Show alignment: How does your request benefit them?
• Use data or examples: Back up your ask with results.

Example: Instead of saying, “Can I have a raise?” say, “I’ve increased team productivity by 20% this year and taken on additional responsibilities. I’d like to discuss a salary adjustment that reflects my contributions.”

3. Embrace the Word ‘No’

Rejection isn’t the end—it’s a step on the path to “yes.”

How to Reframe ‘No’:

• See it as feedback: What can you learn or adjust for next time?
• Build resilience: Every “no” is a badge of boldness.
• Keep the door open: A polite follow-up can turn a future “maybe” into a “yes.”

Maverick Move: Respond to rejection with gratitude and a question like, “Thank you for considering my request. Could you share what I can improve for the future?”

4. Practice Asking in Low-Stakes Situations

Confidence grows with practice. Start small before making your big ask.

Ideas for Low-Stakes Practice:

• Ask for a discount at your favorite coffee shop.
• Negotiate delivery fees for an online order.
• Request extra perks when booking a hotel.

Pro Tip: The more you ask, the easier it becomes to ask for bigger things.

5. Believe You’re Worth It

Here’s the game-changer: you have to know you deserve what you’re asking for.

Confidence Boosters:

• Reflect on past wins—what have you achieved that you’re proud of?
• Surround yourself with supporters who remind you of your value.
• Use affirmations like, “I am worthy of opportunities that match my greatness.”

Maverick Mindset: Your worth isn’t up for debate. When you believe in your value, others will, too.

#Audacityin2025

The Power of Asking BIG in Real Time:

This year, I decided to Dream BIG and Ask BIGGER of myself. ?Over the?last two years, I wanted to reintroduce myself as more than the #KillerPitchMaster. I am the #UltimateRainmaker too who can teach you how to "make it rain and slay the game!" ?Rainmaking is so much more than getting premium clients. ?It requires packaging, positioning and pitching skills! ?I created a proprietary formula and ran with it! ?This brought me back to the legal profession as a trainer, partner retreat keynote, an instructor and speaker at legal industry events. ?

In fact, it opened more doors to engagements?in the real estate and financial services industries too. I also hosted a few events and was an auctioneer at several fundraisers where we met, doubled or tripled our fundraising goal. ?Why am I telling you this? ?Because until I put it out there and made my BOLD ask, it would not have happened and I would not have RESULTS or RECEIPTS!

My BIG ASK of YOU: ? Watch my Updated Speaker Reel here:

https://youtu.be/nSLZ7gHZtI4?

As an experienced Keynote speaker, trainer, host and auctioneer, you can trust me to bring the energy, funk, noise, and unique training skills all in one dynamic package. To learn more or hire/book me for your Corporate training event, speaking engagement, conference, etc., please reach out to us at: https://goleeward.com/#speakers ___________________________________________________________________________

Success Stories: Bold Asks That Opened Big Doors

1. The Investor Pitch

I once asked for a $500,000 investment for a business idea that wasn’t fully developed yet. I believed in my vision and made my case with confidence. I didn’t just get the money—I got mentorship, connections, and credibility. ?And then went on to raise an additional $250,000 in pitch prize money!

2. The Speaking Opportunity

A few years ago, a?Fortune 500 company told me they didn’t have room in their budget to hire me as a speaker. Instead of walking away, I offered to deliver one free session. That one session turned into a long-term contract and referrals to other major clients. ?I was strategic in my ask, slayed my presentation and made the BIGGER ask now that I had exceeded al expectations!

Lesson: Sometimes you have to create opportunities where none exist.

Final Thoughts: Just Ask!

The biggest doors in life and business don’t open on their own—you have to knock, push, or even kick them down. When you ask boldly, you signal to the world that you know your worth, believe in your vision, and aren’t afraid to claim what’s yours.

So, what’s your next bold ask? Whether it’s pitching your dream client, negotiating a raise, or asking for a chance to lead, I challenge you to take the leap. The answer might just surprise you.

Let’s go out there and make bold moves! If you’re ready to master the power of the ask, let’s connect—I’d love to help you refine your pitch.

Ready to Elevate Your Pitch?

? ? ? These steps are just the beginning. Imagine having the exact roadmap to craft pitches that not only impress but also close deals with industry giants.

? ? ?Here’s your chance to grab my Perfect Pitch Blueprint—for FREE! ?? tinyurl.com/PPGFreeSpecialGift

? ? ?Let’s turn your words into wins. Who’s your next big client? _______________________________________________________________________________

Where is Precious Speaking Next?

Tampa, Florida: Nurses Making Money Moves Conference: March 8, 2025

Austin, Texas: #SXSW25 Author Meetup Host: March 9, 2025

Savannah, Georgia: CEO Summit: March 25, 2025

https://perfectpitchgroup.com/events/

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Check out our latest Savvy Ladies , "Power of the Ask" Podcast:

https://www.savvyladies.org/podcast-power-of-the-ask/

What are you going to have the "Power to Ask: for BOLDLY this week? Sound off below!

Have a great week!

Precious L. Williams

CEO, Perfect Pitch Group