when you need something done — whether it’s to relay a communications item or make an action-based request — there’s one thing you always need to mind. the great escape. the wondrous wiggle out. many of us are trying to cram more and more into each day. manic mondays have now become wild workweeks. even weekends are hectic. while the instinct to avoid commitment may be a common or natural one, it’s also a defense mechanism. which means that it’s knee-jerk and not necessarily well-thought or formulated. you can’t afford to be the one to seal his/her/their objection(s). you can overcome this. after all, some efforts require the support, mindpower, energy, and sheer strength of a team.
if you need something, ask for it clearly and without apology. don’t become a master in the art of acquiesce. don’t water down the request by accepting failure ahead of its course. what do i mean by this? don’t say it’s not that important or urgent that something get done. don’t say you’ll understand if participation doesn’t happen. don’t say that you know people are busy. don’t say that you require less than more from people. instead — build a compelling case for why you need something done, be clear about objectives and the commitment you need and show the benefits of joining in this with you. provide levels of participation and the kind of roles people can fill for you. surely, you’re not wasting your or their time. don’t communicate as if you are!
