Harvard Business Review<\/a>, the way you ask for the favor can drastically affect the outcome.
There are three key stages to remember:<\/p>\n\n\n\nFirst, set the scene by saying I have a favor to ask you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then, give your reason for asking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Finally, give your co-worker an escape clause by saying you will understand if they cannot do it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t phrase your favor like a command<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
By asking the person if they can do you a favor, it implies that you are on a friendly basis of a two-way relationship. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The phrase, \u201cI have a favor to ask you,\u201d is far better than just asking for the favor without acknowledging that it is a favor. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So saying, \u201ccan you cover for me tonight as I\u2019m running late\u201d is not as powerful as saying, \u201cMichael, I have a favor to ask you. Can you cover for me tonight? I\u2019m tied up at the office, and I\u2019m not going to be able to make it on time.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Always give your co-worker a chance to say no<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Saying you completely understand if someone can\u2019t do the favor, but thought you\u2019d ask anyway, is perfectly reasonable and will not harm your relationship in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
People cannot consistently deliver a favor just because you ask. Therefore, keeping your request free from too much pressure will help your chances of the favor being granted. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t cross the line over professional boundaries<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you are friendly with a professional in any field, don\u2019t expect them to give you free service just because you ask for a favor. Many professionals are used to people trying to use their time and expertise for freebies, so don\u2019t do it. It crosses a line that will do you no good in the future. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once the favor has been granted, don\u2019t forget to show gratitude. <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Always follow the favor up with a verbal thank you or a note that says how much you appreciate it. You don\u2019t need to go on about it, or the person may become embarrassed, but acknowledging that you appreciate their favor will help them feel their effort on your behalf was worth it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Be sparing in your favor requests<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t turn into one of those people who are constantly asking for a favor. This is not only annoying; it will give you a reputation that you are looking for special treatment, and people will tend to refuse on principle. Instead, save asking a favor when you need it. That way, you are far more likely to hear a yes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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