SECRET
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6
THE POWER OF
ASKING FOR HELP
“If you don’t swallow your pride and you try to tough it out in an
area where you lack skill, knowledge or experience, you exponen-
tially increase the likelihood you will fail.”
Dave Lorenzo, Career Intensity
No one can achieve true success or full potential
on his or her own. We all need other people to
help us along the way. However, the majority of salespeople do not ask
for assistance, and try to do everything themselves.
Prior to starting my business, I contacted many other people who operat-
ed similar businesses. I wanted to know what challenges they encountered,
what mistakes they made, and what advice they would give someone who
was beginning a business. Everyone I contacted was helpful and willing to
share his or her experiences. I took notes and referred to them as I planned
my strategy. I also read dozens of books that were related to my business.
Last, I approached a well-respected businessperson, discussed my plans
with him, and asked his advice. I listened carefully to what he told me and
worked at implementing his ideas.
Several years later, I constantly talk to other sales professionals, small
business owners, sales trainers, and authors. I have learned that I don’t
know everything. (Ouch! Th
at was hard to admit!) However, I do know
that I want to be successful in my business, and talking to other people
gives me additional insights.
Several friends of mine have operated their own training companies for
many years, and I would be foolish not to listen to their experiences and