Dirty Little Secret to Getting Ahead

As someone who meets all types of people, from different shapes and sizes to different values and sets of standards, there is one secret that is not universally understood.

I call it a dirty little secret to get ahead. It entails “who you know” being “cunning”, and perhaps an air of “entitlement”.

And it’s simple.

If you are rejected, turn it into a challenge, not defeat.

And the unwritten set of instructions includes:

  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help and then gently nudge if you have to. Sometimes it takes time for the other person to come around. Maybe they are really busy, or they missed the question in your gentle style of asking altogether.
  • Don’t expect to gain any favors without a subtle hint of courage and confidence. Find your flavor of boldness, without being overbearing. 
  • Learn the game of graciousness – over-thank. And thank immediately. 
  • Know when to stop. There is such a thing as being downright annoying. Based on your age and reputation, you may or may not get away with asking for too much. The younger you are, the higher chance you’ll be put in your place right away, and as long as you accept the challenge to yourself, you can learn from your own mistakes.

Of course, there are probably more secrets out there. Please share!

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