He who asks is a fool for five minutes, but he who does not ask remains a fool forever.

This belief is in my veins. I am it. It is me. I find those who know and devour them until they are empty.

Lately at work I have encountered a lot of false prophets. People insist they know in front of management and then draw a blank when management leaves.

Unfortunately, I am from the North and Northerners never point.

I have survived 15 years of consulting by being the person not afraid to look stupid. What I have learned:

1) People are flattered that you are asking them about their jobs.
2) People love being recognized as a source of knowledge.
3) No one expects you to know their jobs. They are insulted when you don't ask them. They assume that you are arrogant enough to believe you know their jobs.
4) You build relationships, trust and buy in when you consult with people on the opinions and knowledge.