Want Better Answers? Ask Better Questions

Preparation is everything.

This video hit a little too close to home:

speakingwithyasir

A post shared by @speakingwithyasir

How many times have you been in a meeting where someone asks a question this way? I have and, I’m guilty of mentally checking out before the person gets to the point. The result, as Yasir says:

A poor answer.

3 Keys to Asking Better Questions

1. Listen

   1. Most people are focused on what they are going to say, not what is being said. If you really want to ask an engaging and thoughtful question, listen. Your question may be answered or you will get information that will help you structure your question in a way that gets results.

2. Be Prepared

   1. If we used a sports comparison, a meeting would “the game” and the preparation is “practice”. How do athletes perform so well in games? They practice. If you know what the meeting is about, you can prepare. If for some reason you were included and don’t know what it’s about, you can prepare by practicing listening and communication in case the opportunity to contribute arises.

3. Follow This Format (Here’s Your Preparation!)

   1. Towards the end of the video Yasir Khan (@speakingwithyasir) gives us a the formula to ask great questions:

      1. Ask the question first. What do you want to know? Be direct. Use less words.

      2. Provide context after you ask the question

We try to sound more intelligent or important by using a lot of words. The reality is less words are the key. Don’t use 20 words if 10 will do.