Are You Asking for Donations or Apologizing?

Last week, while in the checkout line of a well-known national grocery chain (the one infamous for taking all or most of your paycheck), I was asked, “How would you feel about rounding up to the next dollar for charity?” A quick glance at the register told me that the ask was for 21 cents. It was at this exact moment that my mind started rapidly churning. Picture an extremely long thought bubble forming above my head as the cashier waited for my response.

“Please ask for money, not how I feel.”

“Please ask directly, not passively.”

“Please ask passionately so I want to say yes.”

“Please ask for at least $1.”