E269 | How to Ask Better Questions

Published: April 10, 2023, 5:01 a.m.

\u201cIf I had an hour to solve a problem and my life depended on the solution, I would spend the first 55 minutes determining the proper question to ask\u2026 for once I know the proper question, I could solve the problem in less than five minutes.\u201d - Albert Einstein\xa0\nA good question might just be the most powerful tool you have in your communication arsenal.\nWhy? Well to start, questions are the vehicle through which we understand ourselves, exchange information, build rapport in relationships and persuade others.\xa0\nBut asking great questions isn\u2019t as easy as always starting with \u201cwhy.\u201d\nIn today\u2019s episode, my colleague Ali Kershner and I dive deep into the research behind the power of great questions, how to hone your skill, and improve your social agility by knowing how and when to use these skills appropriately in everyday life.\xa0 Some of the specific pieces we talk about include:\nWhat makes questions so powerful, and why it\u2019s important to ask better questions in the first place (12:10)\nSpecific tactics and examples to help you ask better questions (25:00)\nThe 3 C\u2019s to becoming a better question asker (36:30)\nHow to manage a conversation when you\u2019re being asked tough questions (56:30)\nThere is A LOT packed into this episode.\xa0 So to help you connect all the dots, here are some other relevant resources:\nE90: Coaching As Improv\nE117: Impression Management in Leadership & Life\nE194: How To Become A Better Listener\nE228:\xa0 How To Choose The Right Platform For Your Message\nE255: Podcast Strategies:\xa0 What I\u2019ve Learned After 2,000,000+ Downloads\nE257: ChatGPT & AI: What Is Hype VS What Is Helpful for Coaches & Leaders?\nResearch Paper: It doesn\u2019t hurt to ask: Question-asking increases liking.\nUpdates on My New Book - Stay in the know\nReflections Questions - See graphics on Competitive and Cooperative Conversations\nNewsletter - Be the first to know about our latest content, newest resources, and upcoming live events!\nIf you find value in becoming more intentional with your interactions, improving your social agility, and strengthening your interpersonal skills, you must put skin in the game and do the work.\xa0 These qualities don\u2019t just develop on their own - they are skills to be practiced and refined. And to help you do that, we\u2019ve created a wide variety of resources for you to take advantage of, whatever your circumstances may be.\xa0 From our digital community, to online courses, to live events, we can guide you where you want to go!\nOur next live event is the Art of Coaching Speaker School.\xa0 This live 2 day experience not only gives you the knowledge you need to create a logical and clear presentation, but provides you with a safe environment to fail, one filled with people who want you to succeed, and are there to give you the feedback and encouragement you need to take steps forward.\nThe 2023 Edition of Speaker School is right around the corner - May 6th & 7th in Canton, GA - and spots are limited so we can give each individual the repetition and attention they need.\xa0 So don\u2019t wait -\xa0 sign up today HERE\nIf you\u2019re looking for something more long term, check out The Coalition. We\u2019re biased, but if you\u2019re in search of a personal board of directors, think tank and way to get around great leaders who will help you build a plan forward, it doesn\u2019t get much better than this.\xa0\nOur next round is starting soon, and spots fill up quickly! Check out artofcoaching.com/coaltion for all details TODAY!\xa0\nThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Therapy is a powerful tool for enhancing self awareness and understanding. Sometimes we can be unaware of our own desires and motivations, our wants and needs, and talking to a professional can help us gain valuable insights. We all know that leadership and coaching can be incredibly fulfilling, but it can also be challenging. It can lead to compassion fatigue and moments where we feel overwhelmed trying to help so many people to the best of our ability. When you're constantly giving yourself to others, it's