March 7th 2024.
When it comes to business, the relationships you have with others can be your greatest assets. From clients to peers to influential figures, each person can be considered an ally. But the question remains: how do you establish these connections in the first place?
Whether you're trying to get a guest post published, secure an interview, or form a business partnership, the key is knowing how to ask for what you want in a professional and graceful manner. Here's a guide to help you navigate this important skill:
First and foremost, it's important to ask for what you want without becoming too attached to the outcome. If your entire business hinges on one particular opportunity, you may come across as desperate. Instead, try to approach the situation with a sense of openness and detachment, understanding that whatever happens is meant to be. This takes the pressure off of both you and the person you're asking, allowing for a more relaxed and genuine conversation.
Building relationships should always be your priority before making any requests. While it's okay to strategically target certain individuals, it's also important to follow your instincts and connect with people you genuinely like and feel drawn to. Doing business with someone you have a positive relationship with tends to yield better results for everyone involved.
When building these relationships, focus on providing value and being helpful in any way that feels natural to you. This will establish a reputation for being friendly and collaborative, making future requests more well-received.
When it comes time to make your request, be sure to consider what's in it for the other person. It's ideal to have already established a good relationship before making any asks, but even if you're approaching someone for the first time, think about how your request could benefit them. This could be in the form of free content, exposure to your audience, or some other mutually beneficial opportunity.
Finally, when making your pitch, be concise and considerate of the recipient's time. Whether you choose to send an email, make a quick phone call, or even use a carrier pigeon, keep your message short and to the point. If the person is busy or has someone else handling their inquiries, make sure to account for that in your communication.
After you've sent your request, it's natural to anxiously wait for a response. If you don't hear back after a week or two, it's okay to follow up politely. Keep your message brief and reference your initial request, but avoid adding any additional pressure. Sometimes, emails get lost in a busy inbox or the person may have simply forgotten to respond.
Mastering the art of asking for what you want in business takes practice, but it's an essential skill to have. By following these tips and being genuine in your approach, you'll be on your way to forming valuable relationships and achieving your goals. I can't wait to hear about your experiences and how asking for what you want has improved your business. Remember, it all starts with building relationships and providing value.
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