by Ethel Smith

Created on: July 01, 2008

What is it they say about 'what goes around comes around'?. I guess that this is very true in the favour stakes. After all if you want someone to do something for you, and you are usually the most selfish and self-centred person on the planet, nine times out of ten it is not going to happen. So firstly I say make sure that you help others who ask for help from you. Showing that you are prepared to give a little can often gain you a lot.

Even so it can be hard persuading someone to do something for you depending, especially, on what the task is. I am a great believer in not asking anyone to do something that you would not be prepared to do yourself. There may be some tasks that you are not capable of completing, but that is different. If the task in hand is something which you would find offensive, for example, you should never even consider asking someone else to oblige.

So when you think about persuading someone to do something for you so much depends on the task and the person you are asking. So having decided that the person is suitable, and the task reasonable, how can you persuade someone to do something for you? Here are a few tips:-

BRIBERY

Call it what you will but offering some sort of recompense may be all that is needed. It could be offering to do a chore for them or treating them to a meal out. Whatever it is certain forms of bribery may work.

POLITENESS

Make sure that your request is polite and civil and not a shouted demand. Just think about how you respond to certain requests and speak accordingly.

GIVE NOTICE.

Make sure that you give as much notice as possible. Remember everyone is busy these days and we all have many demands on our time. Try not to spring requests on someone last minute. If you do they may have to refuse.

DO NOT BEG

Try not to beg and plead but to simply ask. Creeping around someone and sucking up to them will usually get you nowhere.

OVERALL

Trying a little bribery, offering to return a favour and asking nicely can all work. Overall treat the person how you would like to be treat. If you are having to ask someone at work, especially if you are in a position of authority, you will have to be fair and friendly but firm. Always remember though that there are some people who it can be so much effort trying to get them to do anything that it is as well to ask someone else. Just make sure that you return their lack of assistance when they need a favour.

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