“Can I Pick Your Brain?”—There is a better way to ask for guidance!

As a notary mentor and coach, I love helping others grow in their business. I’ve dedicated years to refining my skills, building my reputation, and creating educational tools for notaries like you. So when someone reaches out to ask for help, it’s an opportunity for connection—and I genuinely enjoy it. But there's a right way and a better way to approach someone when you're seeking guidance.

Let’s talk about the phrase:
“Can I pick your brain?”

You may not realize it, but this innocent question can carry some unintended weight. When someone says, “Can I pick your brain?”—especially with no context, no introduction, and no clear purpose—it can come across as if my decades of experience are being traded for a quick phone call or a cup of coffee. And I know I’m not alone. Many professionals in this industry feel the same way.

The truth is:
My brain is full of value—and yours should be too.
We’ve spent time, money, and en...