There is no weakness in a leader who asks for help. Maintaining success in your small business requires you to seek advice from your employees on a range of matters.
However, it is important to ask for help in the right way, so your team does not lose confidence in your leadership ability. You need to communicate that you are asking for input or advice rather than help because you are floundering.
Consider these ways when asking for advice from an employee:
Ask a ‘specific’ question
Avoid asking a vague question and get specific. What exactly do you need from this employee? If you are vague, it will communicate to your staff you are unsure of what you want. When you are specific, they can complete the task quickly and conveys that you are seeking their professional advice, rather than a helping hand.
Offer something in return
When you need help, it might be better to turn it into a negotiation. They advise on a matter, and you do the same in return.
Check you need help
Ensure you have tried to complete the task before asking for help. Asking for help straight away may risk others perceiving you as less competent or even lazy if they point out a simple or obvious way to solve the issue.
