6 Steps: Ask for What You Want & Need

*Schedule time in advance. Make sure timing is good. There’s never a perfect time to speak. You may also want to prepare for this interaction by jotting down notes and practicing. Then…

1. Be direct. Tell the listener(s) you have an idea or solution or see something that others don’t seem to see, and you want or need to speak about it.

2. Tell them WHY it’s important (This is the step most people forget. Will this help save time, money, and stress? Will it avert a problem?).

3. Be proactive and thoughtful. “Here are the steps I believe (or I’m certain!) we can take to…”. (Make it easy for them to follow. You might want to write an outline and provide them with a copy).

4. Get ‘buy-in” along the way. Ask them if this is clear to them and if they have any recommendations to achieve the same results.

5. Ask the question, “Is there anything ‘we’re’ missing? ALWAYS be open to learning; collaborating but get them back on track if they try to change the subject.

6. Provide your ‘call to action’. (Straighten your spine) and ask or tell them what you recommend they do. Clearly articulate the next best steps.

*Schedule time to follow up to keep the idea/solution moving in the right direction). ALWAYS seek a win/win/win. Negotiate from a desire that everyone benefits.