
If your volition is simply to get acquainted or catch up with someone, when your real intent is to elicit their help to improve your condition (find a job, raise money, obtain an introduction), you better change your mindset. Listen with obvious interest. Pose brief, intelligent questions that invite the other party to reveal themselves. Spot opportunities for reciprocal benefit. Be clear and precise about the help you seek. Agree time and date for follow up. Be memorable and someone they’d be keen to meet again.
Sounds simple? Most people don’t do this well and in return, receive little or no commitment from most of those individuals they ask.


