Importance of Questions
Introduction
The right question at the right time is very powerful:
"...they are more than linguistic expressions seeking an answer. They can catalyse dialogue, critical thinking, problem solving and relationship building......foster......innovation......enhance your credibility and reputation......strive for curiosity, exploration and reflection..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p
Questions are a valuable aid in your decision-making, both personally and professionally. They can
"...opens the door to new ideas, can reveal underlying assumptions, can foster curiosity, collaboration, creativity and progress. They can facilitate learning, build trust and help create a more open and transparent work environment. Used wisely, they can uncover the root causes of issues, enabling a deeper understanding of the problem and lead to more effective strategies and decision-making..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p
The right questions will lead to the right answers and solutions; however, it is very situational
"...Some questions can shut down communication, while others can inspire it. Some questions can limit possibilities, while others can expand them. Some questions can generate fear, while others can generate trust..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p
Four types of key questions
i) closed questions (require 'a yes or no' answer; however,
"...they limit the depth and breadth of the conversations, which means you'll miss out on valuable insights or information. They can also make you seem uninterested or dismissive......These questions leave no room for explanation or context, stifling open communication and connection..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p
Some examples include
"...- Did you finish the report?
- Did you complete the task or not?..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p)
ii) leading questions (these
"... Steer people towards a predetermined answer, limiting their ability to think independently. They often imply a bias or a hidden agenda, leaving people feeling manipulated or coerced......such questions can pressure team members into conforming to your perspective and just agreeing with you..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p
Some examples include:
"...- Isn't it obvious that option B is wrong?
- You must agree that this approach is the best, right?..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p)
iii) rapid-fire questions (this involves bombarding the person with multiple queries quickly without giving them a chance to answer
"...it can feel overwhelming and intimidating by making you appear impatient or hostile..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p
Some examples include
"...- Who did this?
- When did this happen?
- How did this happen?
- What are you going to do about it?..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p)
iv) loaded questions (these questions contain
"...A false or questionable assumption or a hidden accusation. They can put people on the defensive, creating a psychologically unsafe environment..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p
Some examples include:
"...- Why is your work always late?
- Why are you always the last to respond?
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p)
Some examples of good questions:
- to encourage deeper exploration of the situation and constructive suggestions
"...- Can you share your insights on our challenges during the project?
- What strategies do you think could improve our approach in the future?..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p
- to promote curiosity, deeper analysis and sharing diverse perspectives
"...- I'm curious to hear your thoughts on our current strategy?
- What factors do you believe we should consider?..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p
- to encourage deeper thinking to help uncover hidden needs, opportunities and challenges
"...- What are some of the unmet needs of your customers?
- How can you leverage your strengths to create a competitive advantage?..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p
- to encourage team members to examine their thoughts, feelings, actions and outcomes plus commitment to understanding others' points of view and resolving issues
"... Can you help me understand your perspective better?..."
Michelle Gibbings, 2023p