It is always easier getting something from someone you know. At times what you ask for may be embarrassing and a stranger may be easier to talk to, getting results is a different story.
To increase the likelihood of successfully getting someone to do something for you, first you need to build a relationship with them. Hopefully, you can do this before you need anything from them. This is not always possible. When you are new to an organization, you have not had time to build the required relationships. In those times, you need to rely on other persuasive tactics. Over time, opportunities will present themselves for you to get to know people, but more importantly, you need them to get to know you. The easiest way to start the process is to make them feel special.
Acknowledge people. Make them feel heard. Make them want to be around you. These are all important, but how do you get there. In the busy world we live in where information is coming at you from every direction, it is hard to keep up with it all. It is hard to know what to respond to first. To make is simpler, look at the medium that carries the message.
If somebody walks into your workspace, take the time. Whatever they are talking about may not be important in the grand scheme of things, and may not be important to you, but it is sure important to them. They took the time to find you and spend time with you. Listen to them.
On the other end of the spectrum, if somebody sends you a letter, they want a response but it probably isn't due the moment you open the letter. It can sit on the side for some time.
If you are trying to build relationships, talk to them about things they find important outside of work. You may have nothing in common but if they can tell you about their hobbies or children, while you take a genuine interest, it will make it easier for you to get something in the future. Too often people say I don't have time for this and blow people off. It doesn't help in the future as they will be willing to blow you off.
Be welcoming. Try to break down barriers to access you. Keep doors open. Invite people to stop by your workspace and take time for them when you do. Don't live in the ivory tower.
Share some of yourself. You don't have to tell them everything about you but be human. Let them know about what on the job is going well and where you want to make improvements. Share fun moments you have. You don't have to pull the curtain all the way back and air all your dirty laundry, but show you are a person.
Get to know people in your organization you currently don't have any work interaction with. Your role or their role may change and you may need them someday. Have that relationship available.
To put a nice bow on all of it, be a nice person. This does not mean you let people walk all over you, but when you communicate be polite. Don't try to hurt people and actively help people who need it.
We can't all work in isolation, so to make it easier to get things done, make others feel special.
