Can I Pick Your Brain?

I love this post from RJ Larese because it captures the reality so many of us face. I enjoy sharing what I’ve learned and helping others. But the truth is, “Can I pick your brain?” adds up fast.

Here’s my two cents on how to make it more meaningful:

1. Thoughtfulness. A follow-up email sharing how you applied the advice (or even a recap of what you learned) is one of the best things to receive. Bonus points if you send a Starbucks gift card as a thank-you.

2. Be specific. If your first question is “how did you get started?”… I promise, I’ve covered it online already. Google is your friend.

3. Time is valuable. Nothing is worse than a 30 min call ending with “can we book another one?” If you’re looking for deeper business advice, I actually carve out time twice a month for mentoring through paid 1:1 sessions. I’m much more likely to “say yes” when approached knowing time and expertise is valuable.

Post from RJ Larese on LinkedIn here:

“Can I pick your brain?”

I get that question about 10 times a week. If I said yes to every one, I’d basically be running a full-time unpaid podcast called The Inside of RJ’s Head. And I promise you, that’s not always a fun place to be.

I like helping people. I like sharing what I’ve learned. But my time isn’t an all-you-can-eat buffet. This post is not just about me protecting my inbox. It is about giving you a playbook for how to reach out to anyone more effectively.

When you ask someone for their time, you are not the only one asking. Multiply your request by 10 or 20 others in the same week, and that is hours of their life gone. Being thoughtful makes all the difference.

Here is what actually works when you want to connect:

• Be clear on what you want to learn. “I’m trying to understand X” is stronger than “let’s chat.”

• Check what they have already shared. Posts, articles, podcasts, and talks often answer your first questions.

• Respect the value of their work. If what you are asking is really consulting, call it consulting and pay them. People are going to be more willing to give you their time. 

• Think bigger than one-on-one. If you want a topic covered, suggest they post about it. That way everyone benefits, not just you.

• Be honest about your goal. If you want a job, advice on pitching, or business opportunities, say that upfront.

• Offer flexibility. A thoughtful email or a few focused questions might get you a faster, better response than asking for an hour-long meeting.

Boundaries are not mean. Boundaries are the only reason people like me still have brains left to pick.

Original post on LinkedIn here.