The issue/question of when to ask for help in a professional setting…isn’t always as clear-cut as one would think.  All of the standard question elements quickly become part of the challenge:

• Who do I ask?
• When is a good time?
• How do I phrase the request?
• What specifically do I need help with?
• Why can’t I do it myself?

And all of these questions are appropriate and relevant…but shouldn’t there be guidelines when you are considering Asking For Help? Well although I am guilty of often taking the “I will do it myself!” approach…here is a fun TOP 10 list of thoughts that may help:

1. Don’t worry because there is never a perfect answer or solution…and asking for help is always knowledge building.
2. Don’t worry if the process/answer takes longer…a better solution is worth the wait.
3. Don’t worry that someone may view it as a sign of weakness…professionally asking for help is a sign of strength.
4. Don’t fall into the “Never mind I will do it myself!” syndrome…because no on goes it progressively alone.
5. Don’t worry that the issue/challenge might be delegated to someone else…sometimes there is more to the decision than you know.
6. Don’t be afraid that someone might know more than you about the topic…that is reality.
7. Don’t worry when you might be bothering someone with your request…true professionals understand the value of asking for help.
8. Don’t worry when the answer/solution is not what you wanted …flexibility/adaptability builds character.
9. Don’t underestimate the idea generating power of asking for help…two or three brains are better than one.
10. Finally, don’t forget how great you feel when someone asks for YOUR help!