Last week we started exploring Engaging Support—one of the most proven leadership skills that will help anyone become better. One of the best ways you can engage support is seeking help.

Why do we have second thoughts when it comes to asking for help. I think people are like this for 3 reasons:

1. They believe that asking for help is an admission of incompetence.
2. They think it makes them look weak, because they should already know the answer.
3. They believe if they are seen as being needy, the boss might not need them.

Well, guess what? Research proves the OPPOSITE is true. When you swallow your pride and ask for help, it actually strengthens others’ perceptions of you!!! If you really want to impress someone or gain their respect, then let them see you asking for help!

They believe you have COURAGE… and they think of all of the times they should have asked for help but they were too prideful.

Asking for help proves that you want to learn, and learners are always the ones who do the best job in the long run. Do you want to grow? Then ask for help.

 Plus, asking for help shows that you are willing to learn and improve—and this makes people trust you more!

Learning to ask for help is a skill you want to master. Here is what to do:

1. First, don’t delay. The longer you put it off the harder it will be every. Single. Time. And your problem will get worse.
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2. If it’s possible, I would like some help in __________, because ____________. (If it’s possible, I would like some help remembering how to use this software, because I know I can become more efficient.) (If it is possible, I would love some help with my driver’s test, because I want to learn correctly the first time.)
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3. Be prepared for the person to ask, “That’s a good question, what do you think that you should do?”
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4. If you really care about others, they will want to help you!!! Be empathetic and care about the needs of others. Remember, empathy is simply the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. (And research reveals that empathy is directly related to learning.)

 
Here’s your key takeaway for the week: You only have to remember 2 things: Ask for help and be empathetic. Try those this week. If you do, your life will be better.

Dr. Rob

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