Say It Like You Mean It: Mastering the Art of Asking Without Fear or Pushiness

Asking for what you want can feel like standing on a cliff edge—exciting yet terrifying. Cindy McGovern’s Every Job is a Sales Job helps you step off that edge with confidence and grace.

Fear of rejection is common, but avoiding the ask means missing out on opportunities. You're far more likely to get what you want if you ask than if you don’t. The key is to ask clearly and politely, framing your requests as proposals rather than demands.

Consider the contrast between a pushy salesperson who triggers the 'ick' factor and a respectful asker who builds goodwill. The latter approach fosters positive outcomes and long-term relationships.

Practical tips include using respectful language, timing your ask well, and showing empathy. Learning to accept 'no' gracefully and persist kindly turns rejection into a stepping stone.

By mastering the art of asking, you transform sales from a source of anxiety into a joyful exchange of value.

Next, we’ll look at the power of follow-up to nurture relationships and multiply your success.