The benefits and drawbacks of asking someone for assistance vary depending on the individual and the problem at hand.
Advantages:
Experience: If the person has worked on the topic before or has related skills, they may be able to offer insightful advice.
Network: The individual may be connected to others who can offer support or extra resources.
New viewpoint: Viewing the situation from a different angle may result in the introduction of previously unconsidered ideas or strategies.
Disadvantages:
Availability: The person might not be able to assist at the desired time or be available.
Conflicts of interest: The individual may be hampered from fully supporting the cause by competing interests or commitments.
Costs associated with seeking the person's assistance include consultancy fees and travel expenditures.
Aims that are misaligned might cause conflict or obstacles because they differ from the issue's goals or objectives.
In conclusion, the benefits and drawbacks of asking someone for help vary depending on the individual and the problem, but may include expertise, network, a new viewpoint, availability, conflicts of interest, expense, and misaligned goals.