Asking for help is a skill we develop over time. It’s one I’ve come to appreciate more with each passing year.
The way I seek support is similar to the way I approach B2B relationships. It’s grounded in a guiding question:
How can I make it easier for someone to help me?
The way I seek support is similar to the way I approach B2B relationships. It’s grounded in a guiding question:
How can I make it easier for someone to help me?
Here are two lessons that resurfaced for me last week:
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Whether you’ve been offered help in passing or you’re preparing for a coaching session, a little prep can go a long way.
🧭 FOUR PILLARS OF MERCHANT METHOD
The solution halo-effect
Being problem-aware is essential to getting the support you need. Pinpointing which of your Four Pillars needs attention might even unlock solutions in other areas of your business.
🧭 FOUR PILLARS OF MERCHANT METHOD
The solution halo-effect
Being problem-aware is essential to getting the support you need. Pinpointing which of your Four Pillars needs attention might even unlock solutions in other areas of your business.
New to the Merchant Method or need a refresher? Get oriented.
📚 MERCHANT SKILLS
Right-size your question
Start with the end in mind. Identify the root cause of a business challenge or pain-point to access solutions — not just symptomatic relief.
Avoid asking open-ended questions like, “How do I start selling wholesale?” or “How much inventory do I need?” if you don’t have hours to dig in. Instead, clarify your goal: What outcome do you want from this conversation?
Understand your helper’s background. What are their skills, interests, or expertise? This will help you align your question with the person’s skills.
Ask a question that matches the time you’ve been given. This is crucial when you’re time-limited. A question that can be answered in 10 minutes is different from a question that can be answered in 45.
Share just enough context. If you’ve tried something that hasn’t worked, that information will be helpful to share.
✍ YOUR ASSIGNMENT
Practice makes progress
If you’re in the Seattle area, I’m offering free in-person speed coaching at Good Business Connections, a free resource fair for small business owners.
🗓 Wednesday, April 9, 2025
📍 Washington Hall – 153 14th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
📚 MERCHANT SKILLS
Right-size your question
Start with the end in mind. Identify the root cause of a business challenge or pain-point to access solutions — not just symptomatic relief.
Avoid asking open-ended questions like, “How do I start selling wholesale?” or “How much inventory do I need?” if you don’t have hours to dig in. Instead, clarify your goal: What outcome do you want from this conversation?
Understand your helper’s background. What are their skills, interests, or expertise? This will help you align your question with the person’s skills.
Ask a question that matches the time you’ve been given. This is crucial when you’re time-limited. A question that can be answered in 10 minutes is different from a question that can be answered in 45.
Share just enough context. If you’ve tried something that hasn’t worked, that information will be helpful to share.
✍ YOUR ASSIGNMENT
Practice makes progress
If you’re in the Seattle area, I’m offering free in-person speed coaching at Good Business Connections, a free resource fair for small business owners.
🗓 Wednesday, April 9, 2025
📍 Washington Hall – 153 14th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
