Asking questions. Questions are a very helpful tool for us to gather information. In the last lesson, we discussed how we can demonstrate we are listening by asking questions. There are two levels of questioning, including close-ended questions and open-ended questions. Each has their purpose, but we have to be wise in how we use them. Close-ended questions evoke a single or very short response. Here are some examples: What is your name? Do you like this? Do you want to do this? Close-ended questions are good when you are looking for a specific answer. This also helps control your discussion. Open-ended questions evoke a long response. When you ask an open-ended question, you may have to be prepared to listen intently because the information you are looking for is embedded in the answer. Here are some examples. How do you feel about it? What are your thoughts? Why do you think that? What are your suggestions? Open-ended questions are well-placed in conversation where you want to get to know someone, like a business client. Open-ended questions give you more information to process. When determining which type of question you are going to ask, ask yourself if short or long answers are what you need. If you are preparing for a meeting, have your questions ready in advance. It is also a good practice to develop follow-up questions too. For example, you may ask the initial question, “What are some ideas in resolving this issue?” A good follow-up question may be, “Why do you think this is a good idea?” Close-ended questions are also useful. For example, you may ask, “Do you like this idea?” A mix of both questions allows you to gather informations and opinions quickly and efficiently. But remember that planning your questions ahead of time is a good practice. Finally, bring plenty of paper to take notes.
