you have to ask for it!
In Japan, they say the nail that sticks up gets hammered down. Not so in America. In America, it’s the squeaky wheel that gets the oil. If you want something at work, whether it’s time off, additional resources or a promotion, you need to ask for it. Don’t assume your boss or coworkers know what you want, and don’t have a pity party because nobody is reading your mind. Here’s how to ask for what you want and get it.
You deserve it, so ask for it.
The first step in getting what you want is overcoming shyness, or fear of asking. It is good to ask, but you must do it prepared.
Before you ask, think:
Whom Should I Ask?
Does the person you are asking have the power to make a final decision? Make sure you are asking the right person. Be sure to say thank you or show appreciation when your request is granted. Even if your request is denied, be professional and thank the person for considering your request.
How Should I Ask?
• Make a plan. Spend some time thinking about what you want, who can best give it to you and how you will ask for it. Try to imagine what possible responses you may encounter, and practice different scenarios. It often helps to write down your ideas to keep focused.
• Show the benefit when you are asking for something. How will your bottom line grow if you are given additional resources? How will the organization benefit from promoting you?
• Be prepared with options. Have one or more alternatives planned. You may not get exactly what you want, so be prepared to offer an alternative. Be open to considering alternatives presented by others as well. You should always have a plan B, or some idea of what your response will be if your request is not granted.
When Should I Ask?
Timing is everything. Pick a time when your boss is in a good mood and there is no deadline looming. If your boss is distracted or stressed, wait and ask later. Pay attention to your own energy levels, and choose a time to ask when you can feel relaxed, empowered and positive.
Your boss’ time is limited. When you make your request, keep it short, sweet and upbeat. Don’t offer disclaimers, or project that you expect to be rejected. Use affirming language that keeps the request in a positive light. Be sure to state your request directly, simply and concisely. The less information or disclaimers you include, the fewer areas to find fault with and fewer reasons to be turned down. Give your boss time to make a decision. If she or he won’t make a decision on the spot, agree on a deadline for a response, and then follow up.
You won’t always get what you want, but you’ll never know if you don’t ask. Once you get used to asking for what you want, it will get easier each time. If something is important enough for you to ask for, be sure to have a plan from start to finish.
