You could use help promoting your latest blog, video, or marketing campaign, but you don’t want to appear pushy, crass, or creepy. Is it okay to ask for help, and if so, when is it acceptable? My answer is yes, when it’s something you’re passionate about and you’re asking friends. That’s when it’s okay to be a little creepy.
I Should Explain Myself
I’ve had the privilege to meet with a brainstorming group of friends for more than 10 years. We’ve taken a break during the pandemic, but we still connect on a private Facebook page. One of the activities we’ve embraced and recommend to newcomers is to be a little creepy. What we mean is to let the group know where help would be appreciated.
The context for which we most often recommend creepiness is sharing initiatives, broadcasting your latest case study, inviting others to an event, or a call to action for your favorite charity. I was introduced to this idea by my friend Kyle Lacy several years ago, and it struck a nerve. If you’re passionate about what you’re promoting, why wouldn’t you ask friends for help? Is it the fear of seeming too pushy or creepy that holds us back? And doesn’t asking for help break some unwritten social media rule? “Thou shall not be a conspicuous self-promoter on Facebook, Twitter, ad LinkedIn.”
With a Little Help from my Friends
Being creepy can be pushy and distasteful—when broadcast indiscriminately, but we’re talking about friends asking friends for help. Too often, partially due to the fear of being seen as a creep, we expect our friends to read our minds, know what we’re passionate about, and help spread the word when the truth is our friends may not even be aware of our initiatives. So, be a little creepy, share your expectations, and let your friends know how they can help.
How to be a Non-Creepy Creep
For me the best way is with a private message. Send a DM, email, or text with a link to a post you want to promote. Share an event with friends. Begin a private Facebook group to get all the creepiness and self-promotion out to your friends. Email a mentor concerning your needs and follow up by reciprocating. It’s bad voodoo creepy if you expect others to help you and don’t return the favor. Better yet, help first, creep later.
It’s not only OK to be a little creepy. It’s a good thing. Share your passions, hopes, and needs with your friends. With people who admire and respect you, you may be surprised by how likable of a creep you can be. So, what are you passionate about, where could you use some help? Be creepy and leave me a comment.
How Can I Help You?
I like to help people and organizations, but I have three criteria I consider before taking an assignment – I believe in what the organization stands for, I know I can help, and it looks like fun. If you have any questions, Contact Me.
So, does your business have a management training plan? Because, if not, many organizations, large and small, use my book, The New Manager’s Workbook, a crash course in effective management, as the basis for their leadership development program. Check it out.
