How to Ask the Right Questions for Sought After Answers

Asking questions serve as a major aid in learning and resolving matters. All of us ask questions daily for many different reasons. When it comes to business, it’s a leader’s responsibility to know the type, purpose, how, when, and where to ask each question to generate the right responses. If, as a leader, you are often-time ineffective in this regard, you may be annoyed and frustrated. Be encouraged to know that you are not the only one feeling this way, and there is no need to be discouraged. The points highlighted in this blog will help you to resolve this problem. I have personally tried these techniques, and they have been proven to work time and time again.

Types of Questions:

To start, let’s explore the types of questions. Questions are widely known as falling under the umbrella of two basic categories – “narrow and specific” or “broad and general.” The “narrow and specific” questions are the easy-to-answer questions that require others to provide short answers. For example, “How long ago have you started your own business?” “What did you do before?”

On the other hand, the “broad and general” questions would be: “What are some of the changes you anticipate will be needed for your business to grow and expand?” “What external factors do you foresee forcing you to change your focus in business?” “Broad and general” questions give you more room to gather information that will take you in more depth to ask further questions for more answers. These questions also allow the listeners to explore and be creative with their solutions. Many of my readers are thinking – who takes the time to evaluate a question type before they ask it? Well, my response is that successful business owners, bosses, researchers, lawyers, doctors, and teachers do, and so can everyone else.

The purpose for Asking Questions:

Purpose, as a basis for asking questions when defined, relates to one’s determination to find a resolution. When asking questions, one should have in mind that you are asking this question in hopes of learning and coming to a constructive outcome. It is important to always focus on your questions when conducting business with rightful intentions. Others know when you mean well or otherwise have hidden agendas. Questions from a heart of good intentions will be clear, unbiased, thoughtful, understanding, and sensitive because you want both parties resolved. A general principle I stand by is giving to get and getting to give. This principle can also be applied when asking questions – be considerate, show respect, and release the right and acceptable attitude to other parties when asking questions. In return, you are much more likely to get the responses you seek.

Here’s to further help you identify some right purposes for asking various questions: First, are you knowledgeable on your reason for asking questions? Second, are you asking questions to gather information, gain agreement, consensus, acquire opinions, communicate your value, solicit feedback, help others analyze their own suggestions, explore ideas, persuade others, stimulate creative thinking, uncover the truth, resist demands or commands, find commonalities, reduce anxieties or to guide conversations? Whatever your reasons are for asking questions, the following acts must be considered.

1. How to ask questions:

First, think before you ask a question. Who is your audience? What kind of question is being posed? Is the question justifiable? Test the question on yourself. How would you respond to your own question if someone else asked you that same question? Brainstorm -what kind of feelings did you get by asking yourself such a question? If positive, proceed; if negative, evaluate and rephrase before you move forward. It is important to also transfer an attitude of care and humility. Become the person that shows the other party that you are acting in their best interest and that you are relying on them to play an important role in effective change. The other party must understand that their participation is valued, their responses will not be judged, or they will become ostracized.

If asking questions for knowledge, be clear, specific, and direct, and let the other party feel comfortable sharing information with you by understanding your reasons for asking questions. Also, show appreciation for the information they shared and how such information provided will be beneficial overall. Give compliments to the other party, encouraging and supporting them as needed to keep the necessary flow of information shared. Never force someone in the business to answer your question if they are resistant. Be patient, give them the respect, space, and time they need, but communicate clearly why their answer is vital and necessary for a determined outcome.

2. When to ask questions:

When the other party is mentally and emotionally available for the exchange and interaction. Be sure to ask if it is the right time depending on the nature of the question, and the amount of information sought. Don’t ask questions that violate the other party’s privacy in front of others. This kind of embarrassment can destroy your business relationship with the party. 

3. Where to ask questions:

Consider the appropriate time and place for your questions – are there appropriate and acceptable conditions for communicating in that environment? For example, is the environment safe? Is the environment distraction free? Is the climate private or open? Is the atmosphere comfortable and relaxing? Is the setting casual or business-related? All these factors should be considered, and more. 

Written By: Iodelle A. Chinnery