Ask and You May Receive

Recently I entered a large department store and read the sign detailing additional savings on sale items.  As I was paying for my items I asked the sales clerk about the additional discount on my purchases, and was told that the sale ended the previous day.  She was surprised when I showed her that the sale sign was still displayed at the entrance I'd used.  She agreed to my request to ask her manager to honor the previous day's sale price.  Before completing my special purchase, she followed her manager's order and removed the outdated sign from this little used entrance.  I smiled and thanked her for granting me the additional discount.  As she handed me my bag, she let me know that no one else would be receiving the additional discounts. 

This incident reminded me that by reasonably asking for what we want, we may receive what others don't.

Giving and Receiving

How often do we beat around the bush about what we want?
Recogniton?
Acknowledgement?
Thanks?
Job?
Sitter?
Doctor?
Volunteer opportunity?
Award?
Sale?
Home?
Recommendation?
Referral?
Date?
Appointment?
Connection?

Most people are willing to help those with whom they have a positive connection. Good relationships, excellent track record and great reputation provide the foundation for helping others and ourselves get what we want. Give first - do more than is expected; provide both responsive and unsolicited assistance to others; model the helpful behavior you'd like to see others deliver. Often, unless we voice our wants and needs others don't know what is important to us. Ask - then be open to what you receive.