The power of asking
November 1, 2021
Wouldn't it be nice if that ideal job just landed in your lap? How great would it be if a fabulous fellowship opportunity appeared out of nowhere? If you could suddenly connect with people whose jobs you covet through a warm introduction, not a cold ping on LinkedIn?
That would be lucky!
But the bad news is that luck usually doesn't just happen. Being a magnet for opportunities may relate more to social privilege and connectedness than pure luck. However, the good news is that you can create the conditions for it to happen more.
I first learned about "making your own luck" at a social impact training through StartingBloc shortly after starting my coaching practice. In a nutshell, making your own luck involves letting people know what you're looking for, in as vivid and energizing a way as possible. And preferably asking broader groups of people you're not as tightly connected to (hence the "strength of weak ties").
Doing this has helped me connect with many wonderful clients who I wouldn't have otherwise crossed paths with. And it even landed me a beautiful used cello!
Whether you're job searching, trying to get promoted, growing a venture, or just looking to spice things up in your professional life, it's vital to remember that "if you don't ask, you don't get" (this quote is alternately attributed to Mahatma Gandhi and Stevie Wonder).
What will you ask for? Here are some ideas:
networking leads for your job hunt or passion project - know anyone who...?
soundingboard or proofreading applications
resources or recommendations in an area of interest
Happy asking… and giving generously too!