The Ask

Preface

THE ASK is your gateway to your success in every aspect of your life. Whether you want a more fulfilling personal life, a better and more high-paying job, more sales, or more money for your nonprofit, it all comes down to THE ASK.

As “The Expert on the ASK,” I know this book will transform the way you will make any ask in your life. That's a start. But it will also transform the way you approach life. When you ask you empower. You empower not only yourself, but also anyone you encounter. When you ask, your confidence, your energy, and your determination and focus draw people toward you. They want to learn more about you—your passions and your products, projects, and programs—and, in turn, they want to help you.

Whenever someone asks me what I do, I say “I help people, businesses, and nonprofits raise money—and more of it.” The very next thing everyone says to me is “Gee, I need to speak to you.” Why? Of course they probably need to raise money for something, but they genuinely want to know how to ask. They know they need to learn how to do it because it is a missing piece whose absence limits their personal or professional growth.

I have an unstoppable passion to teach and share my asking talent, and it started many years ago. My journey began as a civil-litigation attorney working for the state attorney general's office in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I was winning practically all my cases on cross-examination, which was great. Later on, I looked back and discovered ...