Nothing will leave you wanting to learn how to ask great questions more than an awkward, short exchange of boring inquiries that result in simple answers.
We’ve all been there, wanting to take the conversation deeper or to a more interesting level but unsure how to go about it.
Below are three quick tips that will breathe new life into your discussions as you learn to ask better questions that promote even better conversation.
1. Ask questions that demand more than one word answers.
Imagine the length and quality of a conversation based upon questions that allow yes or no answers.
Do you love God?
Is it hard to be where you work?
Are your kids doing well in school?
Do you serve at church?
Are you developing friendships?
Now, think about the possibilities for a conversation if the questions were slightly tweaked.
Why do you love Jesus?
What about your job makes it difficult?
How have your kids adjusted to the new school year?
What keeps you from using your talents at church?
In what ways has having friends impacted your life?
Do you realize the difference?
Even if you continue to receive short answers from open-ended questions you still have a lot more to work with than a question that allows for a one word answer.
2. Ask questions that lead to discussion about application.
Meaningful conversations contain the opportunity for growth and action.
Chances are, if a conversation contains questions than new perspective can be discovered and learning can possibly take place.
These are moments that can lead to asking questions about how to take what has been discussed and put it into action. Which in turn leads to more follow up questions based upon how the application process went.
3. Ask questions based on what you’ve already heard.
(This means you need to listen.)
This is a sure-fire way to communicate that you care and are listening to what others are saying. Rather than rigidly sticking to an agenda, ask questions that are based on what has been shared which will allow for deeper conversation.
The next you time you have the opportunity to ask questions do so out of a desire to know the other person better and to communicate that you care.
“A question forces the listener to react whereas a declarative statement does not” – James C Humes
What tips could you share that help you to ask better questions? Please share your comments below or on Facebook.
God bless.
Evan Doyle
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