BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Ask Directly for What You Want

Remarkable women leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs, it’s time to stop hesitating, waiting for permission, and going after what you truly deserve. As women in leadership and business, we often navigate a complex landscape of expectations, but one thing remains clear: directness is a superpower. If you want opportunities, clients, partnerships, and funding—you need to ask for them—no more beating around the bush. No more hoping someone will notice your brilliance and extend an invitation. It’s time to take control, step up, and claim your success.

Why Directness Matters

Too often, women are conditioned to be agreeable, to soften requests, or to wait for the “right moment.” But successful business development doesn’t reward passivity—it rewards confidence, clarity, and direct action.

Directness:

• Saves time and eliminates confusion
• Positions you as a leader who knows what she wants
• Commands respect and builds credibility
• Drives results faster and more efficiently

Here’s how to ask directly and confidently in business.

1. Be Clear on What You Want

Before you ask, be specific. Vague requests lead to vague results. If you want an introduction, say so. If you want a contract signed, ask for it. If you want investment, outline the terms.

Weak: “I’d love to collaborate sometime.”
Direct: “I’d love to collaborate on a live interview for your audience next month. Are you open to a 30-minute chat to discuss details?”

Weak: “Let me know if you’re interested in working together.”
Direct: “I’d love to work with your company on this initiative. Can we set up a meeting next week to discuss next steps?”

2. Use Confident, Action-Oriented Language

Direct requests eliminate hedging words like “just,” “hopefully,” or “if possible.” These weaken your message. Replace them with clear, decisive phrasing.

Hesitant: “I was just wondering if you might be available for a quick call?”
Direct: “Let’s schedule a 15-minute call this Thursday at 2 PM or Friday at 10 AM. Which works for you?”

Hesitant: “Would you maybe consider sponsoring our event?”
Direct: “Your brand aligns perfectly with our event. I’d love to discuss a sponsorship package with you. When can we connect?”

3. Ask Boldly—You Deserve It

Stop thinking of an ask as a burden—it’s an opportunity. Your product, service, or partnership offers value. Approach every request knowing you bring something powerful to the table.

Mindset shift:

• Instead of “I don’t want to bother them,” think “This is a mutually beneficial opportunity.”
• Instead of “What if they say no?” think “A no today doesn’t mean no forever. I’ll move on or follow up later.”
• Instead of “I need to prove myself first,” think “I already have the expertise—let’s make it happen.”

4. Follow Up Relentlessly (But Respectfully)

One email isn’t enough. One pitch isn’t enough. Business development requires persistence. If you don’t get a response, follow up. People are busy—it’s not personal.

• Send a follow-up email three to five days later.
• If there’s still no response, try a different communication method (LinkedIn message, phone call, or in-person ask).
• Keep it short, friendly, and to the point.

Follow-up example:
“Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up on my previous message about [specific request]. I’d love to discuss this further—are you available for a quick chat next week? Looking forward to your thoughts.”

5. Normalize the Ask—It’s Part of Business

Men ask without overthinking it. You can, too. Direct asks aren’t rude or pushy—they’re expected in business. The more you practice asking, the easier it becomes.

• Need a raise? Ask for it.
• Want a bigger contract? Ask for it.
• Ready to close a deal? Ask for it.

Go for it. You deserve it.