They don’t wear capes but in your organization, you’ll likely find several heroes. These people can save you time, money, and frustration. But far too often, they’re forced to be Clark Kent instead of Superman. What’s holding them back? The fact that many of us are afraid to ask for help.
For example, most copy machines confuse me. Their settings seem designed to waste paper and ink. I realize that it’s a case of user error on my part. Does it make sense for me to try to struggle to use the machine, waste time, and possibly break the copier? Of course not. So why do we resist asking someone who knows the machine to help us?
Pride can get in the way. Some fear not appearing all knowing in the workplace. Asking for help is seen as admitting a weakness.
Get away from that kind of thinking. People are resources. Take advantage of their knowledge, no matter their level in your organization. Plus, most love being asked for help. It’s their chance to play the hero. Ever notice how excited a stranger gets when you ask them for directions?
On the job they’ll get immediate satisfaction from knowing they made a difference. This can also help bring them further into an organization’s culture, making their employment feel like more than just a job.
Warning: Asking for help does not mean dumping work on other people but rather empowering them to help you. How many times do you think someone has wanted to help a superior but didn’t act on it because he or she didn’t want to embarrass the person?
Sometimes, you may want to ask for help even if you don’t need it. It’s a great way to get to know another person in your organization.
History tells us that Henry V would wander disguised among his soldiers to gauge their mood before battle. Hopefully the stakes aren’t that high in your company. But don’t underestimate that satisfaction that comes from providing assistance to another.
