Question: As I become more successful, I find more people asking me for favors (I think you call it making requests). One question asked might seem small, but I recognize how much time it adds up to, with 20 people wanting things from me every day.
Answer: First my personal clarification
Requests are defined as:
1 : the act or an instance of asking for something
2 : something asked for
as opposed to:
Favors that are defined as:
1 : friendly regard shown toward another especially by a superior
2 : gracious kindness; also : an act of such kindness
When asking for a favor it implies reciprocity… not with a request.
It is understood in the business world that the reply to a request can be to AGREE, REFUSE or OFFER ANOTHER POSSIBILITY. If you can’t accept “no” as an answer, you’re making a demand NOT a request!
Therefore, you have to determine if you are truly being asked for a favor. If so, should you choose to do the favor, you tell them what they can do for you as a favor in return. Then you can determine whether it's worth it. If not say no.
If it's business, though, then it's a request and you need to set boundaries. You have to decide WIIFY (what's in it for you). 20/day does add up and takes away from the advancement of your career. While saying NO may feel uncomfortable at first, eventually it will be very empowering and and send a message to your subconscious and the people in your life, that while you're an independent contractor, that doesn't mean that you don't have work to do and that you have time to do favors for everyone.
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