Requesting assistance during times of need in the workplace is something many people have trouble doing. It is human nature not to want to seem weak, needy or incompetent. (Do any of these ring a bell?) We want to appear adept, educated, prepared, and in control. But what if that wave of overwhelming stress is beginning to crash?
Here are a few ways to learn to ask for help:
- Let go of limiting beliefs. What is a limiting belief? One example might be that if you let someone else help you, they are not going to do it as well as you do. Being a virtual assistant and encouraging potential clients to enlist the aide of an experienced administrative professional is a daunting task. I have found that, if they can hand over the repetitive tasks that keep them from simply running their business and doing what they truly are cut out to do, they are much happier people.
The Solution? Communicate. Simply say what it is that you need and why you need it. Make your expectations very clear. Be direct and polite.
- Don’t feel shame, and don’t make it sound bad. Apologizing in attitude or in advance is not necessary.
The Solution? Present your request in a positive light. Instead of saying, I’ve been extremely lackadaisical about dealing with this task, and now it is way out of control,” say something like, “I have been busier lately than I ever anticipated! I would sure appreciate it if you would check this out, and let me know if you can give me a hand.”
- Have you been rejected? Actually, being told “no” is okay. Avoid weaving a story and personalizing the rejection. It may be the person we chose to ask is going to gain the resources to help us at a later date.
The Solution? Accept the “no” as the answer to our request, not a negation of ourselves. A “no” tells us not to waste any more time and energy asking this particular person and guides us closer to someone who will say “yes.”
Asking can enable you to advance, connect meaningfully with others, bolster your productivity and ability to do things with greater ease, and better prepare you for your next challenge, so ask away!
If you are a business owner who can identify with this subject, perhaps now is the right time to get in touch with me. We can discuss how you can benefit from having a virtual assistant manage the tasks impeding your productivity.