Hard Asks Made Easy

It’s difficult to ask for most things in life and I am in the field or business of asking- with every proposal I write, I know I am asking for something and hoping for everything. So adding this book to my Netgalley shelf was a definite yes-because I want to ask better questions, build relationships and get things done.

The three rules of asking: be prepared, be personal, be present.

There is a quiz on knowing which kind of person are you when asking and it’s easy statements to help you know what you lean towards the most and yours truly landed on “The Empathizer,” which means that when I ask, I internalize what I would think and feel if I were asked the same thing.

Laura Fredricks with a background in Law and Philanthropy shares her 5 laws of asking which are insightful. I will share the very first rule and look forward to you reading about the next four in detail in the book.


1.Know exactly what you want, with numbers and dates.

The number of times I’ve heard this at work, was enough for me to nod as I read because there is a huge difference in being very specific with data to back up any request or information and this ties in a lot with storytelling which is a key aspect in communication in my field of interest.

As she shares the five laws, Laura, encourages the reader to use them for daily asks and to also remember to reward yourself just for asking instead of focusing so much energy on getting a ‘yes,’ response.

For example:

What you need: To be heard

Not an ask: “I feel like every time I speak up, no one listens or understands what I am talking about.”

An ask: “I am about to share my top two ideas on this topic, I would appreciate it if you would let me know what you think about my two ideas right after I speak. Your feedback is invaluable.”

Some key take-aways from the book are:

(a). Every ask should be two sentences and one question: this will help you avoid over-asking or making it too confusing for the person to make a decision.

(b). When you ask for personal help, recognize, acknowledge and empathize with the person you are asking and explain why you need their help.

(c). Knowing some essential facts about the person or organization you are asking matters a lot, because it would determine what frame of mind or season of alignment they are in relation to what you need.

Above all, I found this book very easy to read-I started it last night and was done by this morning-pausing to take notes and revising some of my own questions. It is the kind of book that I would recommend in one’s quest to improve how they ask and the type of questions they ask.

The amazing book Hard Asks Made Easy leads readers on an inspiring path towards overcoming challenging obstacles. This useful manual, written by a knowledgeable and perceptive person, provides a plethora of tips and tricks for surviving life's most challenging circumstances with poise and assurance.

The book enthrals readers right away with its captivating writing style and realistic experiences. It skillfully weaves together personal anecdotes with professional counsel, making it an approachable and interesting read for people from all walks of life. Because of the author's empathic style, readers feel immediately connected and assured that they are not alone in their troubles.

The book's emphasis on pragmatism is one of its biggest assets. It equips readers with practical tools and step-by-step instructions to take on a variety of difficult tasks, such as negotiating a difficult business deal, handling a personal crisis, or overcoming self-doubt. The book's chapters are thoughtfully organised so that readers may quickly find the knowledge they need. Each chapter focuses on a different facet of overcoming adversity.

The book also urges readers to acquire resilience and a growth attitude, going beyond simply offering fast cures. It imparts important lessons on accepting setbacks as learning opportunities and embracing suffering as a driver of human development. The motivational style of the author encourages readers to push their limits and realise their full potential.



Hard Asks Made Easy also excels at striking a balance between emotional support and useful guidance. It recognises the emotional toll that trying circumstances may have on people and offers advice on coping with stress, developing emotional fortitude, and asking loved ones for support.

To sum up, Hard Asks Made Easy is a priceless tool for anyone dealing with trying circumstances. It is a must-read for everyone looking for direction and inspiration due to its combination of useful counsel, real-life stories, and inspirational insight. This book gives readers the skills and mindset they need to successfully navigate even the most difficult obstacles.

This book delivers on the promise of hard asks made easy. A series of steps to support you along the career journey. A must have for those new or in the midst of a career and wanting to be heard.

Great practical advice for your personal and professional life. Tips throughout with real concrete examples of how to act in different scenarios. A great read with lots of takeaways. Thank you to #netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy.