On Christmas Eve I’m hosting a blood drive. It’s the first time I have ever done anything like this and I’m leaning how to ask. It’s not very English to ask for things directly – We tend to hint a lot and beat around the bush. We don’t want to offend anyone by putting them in a situation where they feel awkward. So even as a communication coach, I’m wary of asking and exactly how to do it.
A bit of me wants to say: “Give Blood, you have plenty, it doesn’t cost you anything except some time and a bit of put-outwardness. Shall I sign you up?” I want to tug at heartstrings by saying: “It could be your mother, or child that needs this blood.. it will certainly be someones Mum or Dad, someones Son or Daughter”. “I want to tell everyone it’s Christmas – giving is what it’s all about”. I’ve certainly been hinting at that. I’m more comfortable telling them what they get:
A mini-health check
Possibly the coolest blood drive t-shirt ever (designed by Blake Lagneaux)
.. available until they run out.
Food by Jolie’s Bistro
Draw Prizes (including personal training session, gift from Vivian Alexandra, Event Planning Gift Certificates, Golf gift box.. all sorts of amazing things)
If you register online you also get a copy of my first book – and I’ll sign it for you. http://tinyurl.com/myblooddrive
There are also some surprise gifts coming – it’s gonna be fun!
I want to ask people to buy into the dream. To make this the best blood drive ever seen at UBS, Lafayette. I want everyone who comes to feel like they are a hero.. because that’s what they are. To give to a complete stranger. A gift that you will never see them use. A gift that comes when they need it most. That is the best gift of all.
I’m learning to ask, in a very English way. This is important.
So here goes. I need your blood. Sign up here http://tinyurl.com/myblooddrive If you can’t give blood I need a draw prize if you have one. If nothing else, I need you to tell others, get them involved. Call me on 337 255 4283 if you need any more information or need me to pick up a donation.
(thank you)
