“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky
Whether you're trying to climb the ladder in your current organization or leap into a new role at a different company, there’s one universal truth you need to face:
You can’t do it alone.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But Laura, I’m smart, capable, experienced — my resume speaks for itself.”
Does it? Maybe. But here’s the kicker: so do 999 others.
One of the biggest career myths we cling to is that the best opportunities go to the most qualified people.
In reality? The best opportunities often go to the people who are bold enough to ask the right questions, talk to the right people, and tell the right story — at the right time.
When I launched my podcast, Speaking to Influence: Communication Secrets of the C-Suite, my very first guest was Ellen Weber, Executive Director of Robin Hood Ventures, an angel investment firm.
Ellen levied a challenge that still resonates today. (Catch the full episode here.) She said:
“Think of something that you need that will advance your goals or career. Identify someone who can help you get it done. Then craft an ask to them that will make them want to help you.”
Boom.
Sounds simple, right? It is. On paper.
But that’s exactly where most people stop. Right there — at the edge of action. Because putting yourself out there is scary.
It means initiating a conversation, sometimes with someone you barely know — or don’t know at all.
It means risking rejection. It means potentially bothering someone who’s busy, or worse — facing silence. It means showing vulnerability and ambition at the same time.
And let’s be real: that’s a scary place to stand.
But it’s the only place from which real opportunity grows.
The Career-Defining Conversations You’re Avoiding
Whether you're eyeing a move inside your company or scouting new terrain beyond it, the advice is the same:
You must talk to people.
Inside your organization, if you never share that you’re curious about other divisions or roles, people will assume you’re content. They’ll promote someone else who’s been more vocal and clear about their goals.
Outside your company? It’s not just about applying online. It’s about being proactive — reaching out to people in your network, your past, your industry, and yes, even a moonshot... someone you would love to speak to but you assumed they would never give you the time of day. Maybe they wouldn't. But maybe they would.
Talk to:
- Former colleagues
- People you met at a conference years ago
- LinkedIn connections you’ve never actually spoken to
- People doing a job you want, in a company you admire, in an industry you’re drawn to
Ask them to share their stories. Learn how they made their leaps. Ask about what worked and what didn’t. What they’ve learned. What they’d do differently. What advice they’d give.
These conversations can spark ideas, open doors, and lead to opportunities you didn’t even know existed.
How to Make the Ask: 6 Do’s and Don’ts to Get a “Yes”
So how do you craft that compelling ask Ellen talked about? Here’s your starter kit:
✅ Do your homework – Know what this person does and why they’re the right one to talk to. Make it clear this isn’t a copy-paste message.
✅ Be specific – Vague asks like “Can I pick your brain?” are vague for a reason: they’re easy to ignore. Instead, ask for 15 minutes to learn about their path into product management at XYZ Company, what skills are most critical in their team, or who else they recommend that you talk to, and what introductions they are open to making for you.
✅ Make it about them – Show why you value their experience. Appeal to their expertise and insight. People love to feel helpful and valued — it’s human nature. Be prepared to answer their questions about you and explain what you are interested in and why, but be conscise.
❌ Don’t send your resume cold – Especially if your first outreach includes an ask. You’re starting a relationship, not pushing for a transaction.
❌ Don’t apologize for reaching out – You’re not a burden. You’re a curious, motivated professional. Stand in that power. Be confidently grateful, not apologetic.
✅ End with gratitude and clarity – Always say thank you and be clear about next steps. A simple, “Would next Tuesday or Wednesday afternoon work for a 15-minute Zoom?” goes a long way.
Want Help with This? Let’s Take the Leap Together.
If reading this is making your wheels spin — in a good way — but you're thinking:
“This feels overwhelming and scary. I need help building my ‘dream contacts’ list, crafting a compelling ask, and getting clarity on what I want next…”
You’re not alone. And that’s exactly why I created the Quantum Leap executive transition coaching program.
This is for leaders who are ready to make that next leap — but want expert support in mapping the path, building the right relationships, crafting the right message, and getting there with clarity and confidence.
Want to know more? Click here to schedule a free info call to get your questions answered. No pressure. Just possibilities.
Because the only thing worse than taking a risk and hearing “no”… is never taking the shot in the first place, and forever wondering what might have been.
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky
Take the shot.
