3 Simple Questions That Can Derail Your Reputation Reaching out for help is a good thing, as long as you remember to respect other people's time, relationships and expertise.

I think our businesses have synergy--maybe we could discuss over lunch?

Asking for help is a good thing, but … there are times when reaching out can make you sound like an askhole. Yes, an askhole: a person who doesn't respect the value of other people's time, relationships or expertise. Askholes are takers--and they don't even realize (or care) that they're doing it.

Before you open your mouth, consider the ways three common questions can derail your rep.