Planning
Take some time to work out the best question to ask to get the best possible answer. Remember a high quality question usually leads to a high quality answer.
Appropriate direction
Is your question clear, short and is your style and language understandable? You wouldn’t ask a kindergarten class a question in the way you would to a senior manager. If in doubt it’s a good idea to err towards simplicity.
Integrity
Are you hiding anything? Sometimes we have hidden agendas and don’t really speak the whole truth. This can often come across in our non-verbal language and influence the outcome. If the other person has any doubts about our intention or integrity, the result is often a similarly guarded response.
Now here are some tips on how to really listen for good answers:
Create the space
Do you stop and give some space for the other person to answer? Silence might be golden, but it is also necessary for an answer to be heard. If you’ve asked a question, then shut up and wait for the answer.
Want more articles like this? Check out the time management tips section.
Fully listen
…to everything the other person has to say before you prepare your answer. Often we will only
partly listening to what is being said because we’re already thinking about what to say next. Instead, actively listen to everything that is being said and
then formulate your response.
Clarify what you have heard
Ensure you have understood the meaning of the answer. You can do this by repeating back to the person what you have heard them say and then finish by stating “So tell me if I have got it right. What you mean is……..”
Here’s another question……What one question could you ask that would rocket you towards your business goals?
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