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I advise you to apply to all those whom you know will give…

“I advise you to apply to all those whom you know will give something; next, to those whom you are uncertain whether they will give any thing or not, and show them the list of those who have given; and, lastly, do not neglect those who you are sure will give nothing, for in some of them you may be…” quote by Benjamin Franklin
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““I advise you to apply to all those whom you know will give something; next, to those whom you are uncertain whether they will give any thing or not, and show them the list of those who have given; and, lastly, do not neglect those who you are sure will give nothing, for in some of them you may be mistaken.””

Benjamin Franklin

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Encourages seeking support from all potential allies, even those presumed unhelpful, because expectations can be wrong.

In simple terms: Ask everyone for help, even those you think won’t give.

Key Takeaway

Broaden your network and verify assumptions.

Themes

networking politics strategy

Mood

pragmatic strategic

Type

advisory political

When to use this quote

  • campaign fundraising
  • business development
  • community outreach

Key Concepts

social capital risk assessment

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who might surprise you with a contribution?
  • How can you verify assumptions efficiently?
A Different Perspective

Assuming someone will give nothing may waste resources.

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