Improve Your Questioning Skills

Without the right question, you will never get the right answer.

         Often it is not about what you ask, but how you ask a question.

         All good leaders need to master the skill of asking questions.  It is essential to gain new information.

         It is surprising what a leader can learn by just listening and asking simple questions; “Why should we do it that way?” “Who does it better?” “What do you recommend?”

         Many people appreciate having their opinions sought.

A Handful of Tips to help you asked better questions

* Build a rapport

         Don’t be in a hurry. Before questioning a person show a genuine interest in them.

         Build up a rapport by discussing topics of mutual interest before asking questions.

         Ask your question, then pause. Listen carefully to the answer and any explanation given.  

* Try  open-ended questions

         Ask questions to get people talking. Ask people about their ideas and their motives for doing things. ‘What’, ‘why’, ‘when’, ‘how’, and ‘how much’ are always good starting questions.

* Probe for  answers

         If there is a serious problem, it usually indicates some other issues are festering under the surface.

         Dig deeper, and keep asking direct questions to get to the bottom of the problem.  Listen carefully to the answers and don’t jump to conclusions.

* Try ‘suppose’ and ‘suggestion’ questions

         “Suppose you were in charge, what changes would you make?”  Suggest alternative solutions. “If you are not happy would you like to work in another department?”

* Express gratitude

         Thank the people for their thoughts and ideas. If you disagree with an answer don’t argue.  Incorrect answers and vague replies will help you identify gaps in a person’s knowledge.

Geoffrey Moss(mossassociates.co.nz)

“Don’t be frightened to ask a question. They are easier to handle than mistakes.”