This week, I have been focused on asking some very important questions that will decide my future trajectory, and I have realized its power as a tool for all aspects of one’s life. From working on a project, improving one’s health and performance, setting goals, forming relationships, and thinking critically.
The quality of the questions we ask often mirrors the depth of our thinking in a given situation. Most times, we tend to outsource our thinking by seeking opinions or guidance from others rather than tapping into our own internal compass.
This is also amplified by the fact that we are not taught how to ask good questions, and if you ask too many, the teacher will ignore you or ask you to stop because you need to give others the chance to participate.
So, how does one ask great questions? The key lies in directing questions to the right person and adjusting the style of questioning based on the intent. When seeking deeper knowledge or overcoming a challenge, a simple yet effective framework has been extremely useful:
1. Be specific: Clearly articulate the details of your inquiry.
2. Share Your Efforts: Communicate what you’ve already attempted or explored.
3. Explain Your Intent: Clarify why you seek the information.
This formula isn’t exclusive to professional and educational scenarios. It can also be versatile when networking. A simple framework would be to first learn or research about the person you want to network with, then you want to validate yourself and establish rapport, and then you can immediately follow up with a personalized question directed to their area of expertise.
Furthermore, active listening plays a pivotal role in successful interactions. Paying attention allows for meaningful follow-up questions, turning the spotlight on the other person. As a testament to the effectiveness of this approach, I’ve experienced and observed conversations where the one asking questions leaves feeling validated, having had a truly engaging interaction.
On a final note, personal questions remain a topic I’m navigating. I’ll delve deeper into this aspect once I’ve honed and systemized my approach.
In conclusion, the art of asking questions is a skill that transcends professional boundaries, impacting personal and interpersonal spheres. As we navigate through life’s complexities, mastering the art of asking the right questions can become a beacon guiding us toward understanding, connection, and growth.
Hector Mur Lopez 