Can you help me?
Seriously, can you give me a hand?
Actually, what I really want is an introduction.
Any introduction will do. Oh wait, how about an introduction to that really, really big company.
Please?
No? WHY NOT????
I see this ALL THE TIME. Here’s an example, from a LinkedIn Group:
I can’t help this person.
Even though I immediately thought about my contacts at Costco… there is no way I can help. Is he looking for someone to get a food in, or a book, or a job, or a … ???
Beyond that, I don’t even know this person.
IF you ask for help (and you should), here are some things to consider:
- I might help you if I know what I’m helping for (and can feel comfortable with that)… I want to feel comfortable with the introduction I’m doing and not just throw mud on the wall.
- I might help you if I am comfortable recommending you. I have to know something about you, and your character. I don’t want to risk my relationships for someone I don’t know.
Communicate those two points and I bet you’ll have more success when you ask for leads and introductions.
