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is an undesirable choice or even second choice. Take care in structuring questions so that you know the difference between "either-or" and "both-and" responses. |
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Tip 480: Clarify whether you want evidence or opinion on speculative issues. |
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For example: "If we raise our prices on this item, what effect will it have on our customers?" Do you want the other person to give you evidencecomments from prospective customers about price, market trends in pricing, rumors about the plans of competitors? Or do you want an opinion about the effect the other person thinks the price increase will have? Unless you clarify your expectations that opinions (even unsupported ones) are welcome, you're likely to get few answers about the future. |
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Tip 481: Frame off-the-hook questions when asking for favors. |
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If you're dealing with subordinates or if you don't want to impose on a friendship, phrase your questions so that people know it's okay to say no. "We probably should stay open over the holidaybut I suppose you probably already have plans other than work, right?" or "We need someone to pick up the gift for Tseuko's retirement luncheon. Is everybody in a big hurry or would someone have time to stop by the mall?" Such phrasing lets people off the hook without making a big deal of turning you down. |
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Tip 482: Ask questions to convey to others that you value their input. |
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Asking questions should be a promise to pay attention to the answers. Make statements if you don't want input. Of course, listening is no guarantee that you will use every idea or piece of data received, but people will watch for a pattern. When you do want to solicit opinions, follow through by listening and evaluating them. Just going through the motions creates hostility. |
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Tip 483: Establish rapport by asking questions. |
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Most people like to have others show interest in them. When you seek out another's opinion or ask about someone's experiences or interests, you're complimenting them. That warmth builds rapport. |
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