Asking Questions

Asking Questions

One of my favourite things about communication is questions. They are an opportunity for the speaker to clarify their message, and show further knowledge. It also allows the subject matter to be examined even further. They even help build, and maintain relationships.

According to mindtools.com questions are a powerful way of:

• Learning
• Managing and Coaching
• Avoiding Misunderstandings
• Defusing heated Situations
• Persuading People

There are many different forms of questions:

• Open/ Closed (Can both start, and end conversations)
• Funnel (Questions move from general to more detailed)
• Probing (Are good for seeking clarification, or drawing out further information)
• Leading (Attempt to move the responder to the questioners way of thinking)
• Rhetorical (Are effective at gaining the listeners attention)

They all have different purposes, and it is important to understand how they each work. I am providing a link to the original article, as I feel that it is well worth the read.

Link: http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newTMC_88.htm