The Big Ask

Asking is essential for a successful life. But if you’re reluctant to ask for what you want, or it never occurs to you to ask, you’re cheating yourself. THE BIG ASK: Unlock the Possibilities in Your Work, Life & Dreams with Courageous Requests reveals the secrets of asking effectively and the empowering benefits of developing an asking mindset. You’ll discover research-backed skills and inspiring stories from author Paul Quinn’s conversations with people who succeeded because they asked-even when what they wanted had seemed hopelessly out of reach. THE BIG ASK is also a personal guide. It asks questions only you can answer; questions that will challenge and inspire you to confidently ask anything, in any corner of your life. As a life skill, asking is mostly overlooked. And yet, the ability to make requests on behalf of yourself or others-clearly, respectfully, and without apology-is central to both personal growth and professional development. In THE BIG ASK you’ll discover: Ready-to-use techniques and tips for making successful requestsOver 80 inspiring stories-from students, entrepreneurs, and CEOs to salespeople, performing artists, and military veterans-proving the power of asking to change livesThe three components in every successful askThe Big Ask Plan, an effective 5-point framework for formal or strategic asksHow audacity and chutzpa can give your request a boost The importance of self-trust and intuition in spontaneous requestsThe surprising impact of asking for feedback, and how to do it effectivelyThe power of leaders who 'Ask, Don’t Tell' Assertive questions that dispel the fear of 'sounding stupid'How you may be sabotaging your own requests When it’s in your best interest not to askHow to ask for support when it’s hard to ask for supportHow curiosity is the key to connecting with others How the 'rules' you learned about asking determine what you ask and get Ten red flags that you’re being an 'askhole' And much more