One of the easiest and fastest ways to grow your business is revealed in this ancient proverb: "Ask and you shall receive." You've probably heard this phrase countless times, but how many times have you put it into practice? When was the last time you asked for a written endorsement from a client or colleague, feedback from your customers or the opportunity to renegotiate a deal?
The simple act of asking is critical to success, yet many people don't do it. Here are three strategies for asking for what you want:
1. Ask for information. You can never have too much information. In fact, the higher up the ladder you go, the more stuff you need to know. For example, to win new clients, you first need to understand their challenges, what they want to accomplish and how they plan to do it. Only then can you demonstrate the advantages of your unique product or service. Ask questions starting with words such as "who," "why," "what," "where," "when" and "how" to obtain the information you need. Only when you truly understand and appreciate a prospect's needs can you formulate a solution.
