I saw an opportunity with a new prospect, who was an author seeking help in promoting the 2nd edition of his book. I could tell from the job offer he posted online that he was a busy professional who didn’t have a lot of experience in (or time for) strategic planning or marketing -but did have a strong reputation and success in social media and “grassroots” marketing – and I knew I could help. So, I decided to use The Asking Formula and find my “3 Best Reasons” to shape a proposal.

While I included all the research and information to support the proposal, I led with 3 Best Reasons why this prospect should work with me. He called me two days later with a simple response: “Thanks for your proposal. Everything looks great. Let’s get going.”

It worked so well in this scenario, I’m redefining my online profile to lead with these 3 Best Reasons. It was hard work to define them, but it is clearly effective.

Anonymous June 1, 2015

I was the company’s number one sales man, five years running. I was promoted to VP of sales and was miserable. I wanted my old job back, but how do you ask a boss – who stuck his neck out to promote me – for such a thing?

Turns out I needed The Asking Formula. I gained both the confidence and the courage to approach my boss. Turns out he knew I was miserable and wanted me to take my old sales role back; he just didn’t know how to ask me!

Anonymous June 1, 2015