If you want better results, ask better questions!
One of the best ways to explore an issue is to ask good questions.
And when I say “good” I mean questions should be asked with precision.
A critical factor in asking good questions is to use positive presuppositions.
So, rather than say something like:
“If you achieve this result, what will it get for you?”
Instead presuppose, assume they will get the outcome they are seeking by saying something like:
“When you achieve this outcome, what will it get for you?”
This is a small change, but it makes a powerful difference.
You want a person to think about what will happen after they get a desired result.
So, presuppose they will achieve the outcome, they will get what they seek, now it just becomes a matter of when.
And be careful not to give superfluous advice such as:
“What you should do is…” instead you can say something like:
“What you could do is…”
Or “What you could consider is…”
“Should” leaves no alternatives, gives no options.
Always strive to keep a person positive, resourceful, and confident in their ability to succeed.
You are the conductor, let them play the instruments.
A useful structure to use when asking questions is:
What… you… verb… target…
“What” assumes there is an objective a person is actively seeking.
“You” focuses a person given it applies directly to them, and it keeps them accountable.
“Verb” implies there is an action that is needed.
No action = no result.
And “target” leads the way to a specific goal.
This is a future pace.
Once you have established what is wanted by using “what” questions, you can move on to “how” they will achieve it, using how questions, and then “when” questions to lock in a timeframe for the action steps needed.
Always, always use positive body language to gain trust and confidence.
They will respond if you show patience and you are empathetic.
And keep in mind, a smile goes a long way!
That completes this part.
Just remember that asking the right question is all very well, but timing is equally important.
Use the wrong timing and it can simply result in a blank stare.