Are You Being Served? Why Asking Boldly Matters

Growing up, I was a big fan of the British sitcom Are You Being Served?—the one set in the fictional Grace Brothers department store.

The quirky staff always seemed more wrapped up in their own dramas than in helping their customers?

But it wasn't that they didn't care; it was just that their own needs often took center stage.

The famous question, "Are you being served?" wasn't just about the customers—it was also about whether the staff felt like they were getting what they needed to do their jobs well.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about this a lot in the context of business, especially because let’s be real: it's tough out there right now for many small business owners.

And it got me thinking about something I’ve noticed in my work with coaching clients: the importance of feeling heard to ensure you’re truly being served. 

You Have to Ask: Clearly, Confidently, Consistently

When I work with new coaching clients, I notice a pattern. Many are quietly hoping someone will notice their hard work and reward them with sales, support, or recognition.

They ask—if they ask at all—so timidly or vaguely that they aren't being heard. It’s like they’re whispering in a noisy room, hoping someone will turn around and say, “Oh, you need help? Sure!” 

I show them how to ask for what they need with clarity and confidence and remind them to ask again and again and again.

If you need something, you have to ask for it—clearly, confidently, and consistently. And yes, that can feel scary, especially now, but it’s essential.

Why You Need to Speak Up More Than Ever

Here’s the truth: business owners today face enormous challenges. Whether it's dealing with rising costs, fierce competition, or simply trying to keep customers engaged, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. I won’t lie—it's tough.

But that makes it even more important to ask for what you need.

If you’re struggling, remember you’re not alone. There are resources out there specifically designed to help you, like the SBDC (Small Business Development Centers), which provide free services, or the SBA (Small Business Administration) with various programs tailored to support small businesses.

But you won’t get the help you need unless you ask for it.

And it’s not just about seeking outside resources.

Sometimes, even your most loyal customers need a gentle nudge—a friendly reminder to pop back into your store or visit your website.

You have to keep asking, and to keep doing it clearly, confidently, and consistently.

Asking for What You Need Is Not Weakness—It's Smart Business

I’ve seen so many business owners quietly drowning in debt, struggling with anxiety, or feeling paralyzed by the fear of launching something new.

If this sounds familiar, I want you to know: it’s okay to ask for help. In fact, it’s not just okay—it’s necessary.

• If you’re overwhelmed with debt, ask for debt relief options or financial counseling. There are options out there, but you need to reach out.

• If you’re feeling anxiety or stress, ask for support—whether it’s talk therapy, medication, or meditation. There are so many paths to well-being; the first step is reaching out.

• If you’re launching a new business, product, or service, ask your friends, family, and peers to support you—and be specific. Tell them exactly how they can help, whether it’s sharing your post, attending your launch, or simply spreading the word.

It’s Time to Be Heard

Being in business right now is not for the faint of heart, but here’s what I know for sure: you deserve to be heard.

The world needs what you have to offer, but it won’t know unless you speak up.

So, let’s take a page from Grace Brothers, instead of worrying about whether you’re serving everyone else, ask yourself, Are you being served?

And if the answer is no, start asking—loudly and clearly.

Remember, asking isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a powerful tool for growth and connection. So ask for what you need.

Ask for support.

Ask for help.

Ask how you can help!

Ask for feedback.

Ask for understanding.

Just…ask.

Because when you are heard, you are served.

And when you are served, you can serve your customers better than the characters ever did at Grace Brothers.