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Asking Great Questions by Cindy Stradling CSL, CPC

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Asking Great Questions by Cindy Stradling CSL, CPC

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883 Views

January 29, 2019

Asking questions is a critical way to find out information. Often, questions are repeated or asked in different ways to obtain more information, to develop clarity, or to confirm information.

Unfortunately, some people use questions incorrectly, which creates an opportunity for misunderstanding, lack of clarity and the incomplete understanding of the information provided. In business, as well as in personal relationships, learning how to be an effective question asker can help to improve communication and decrease the risk of conflict over misunderstandings.

Open and Closed Questions

There are two different types of questions that can be asked. Both are essential, but they also have different roles to play in the exchange of information.

An open question, which is sometimes called an open-ended question, is one that is asking for a detailed answer. These questions cannot be answered by a simple “yes” or “no” or one-word answer. Open questions tend to start with the words “what” and” how” and sometimes they may also start with why. It is important to avoid too many “why” questions as they can be seen as challenging and result in more of a defensive rather than an informative answer.

These open questions are great for getting ideas, opinions and the “story” aspect of the answer.

Examples of open-ended questions include:

  • What did you think about the movie?
  • How would you tackle this problem?
  • What challenges do you see in this growth opportunity?
  • How could we improve on this process?

Closed questions are the questions that are designed to provide a simple, short answer. The closed questions that would correspond to the open questions above are:

  • Did you like the movie?
  • Is this a good solution?
  • Can this growth opportunity work?
  • Is this an effective process?

Closed questions are ideal to hone in on the specific details and verify understanding of the specific information provided. However, they are limited in their ability to get the full picture, which can create misunderstandings with an incomplete exchange of information.

Structuring Questions

Ideally, when you want information, an open-ended question is the place to start. This allows the individual to share his or her information, ideas, opinions, experience and expertise in detail. Then, using closed questions, you can verify the specific details.

In this structure, you learn a lot of general information and the reason behind the answer provided. Then, with the use of the closed questions, you can ensure you have clarity on the answer, get additional details, and verify your understanding of what is being suggested or recommended.

This is also very comfortable for the person being questioned. He or she is able to work from the general to the specific, which means answers are more focused and informative, ensuring clearer messaging throughout the conversation.

closed questions, open ended questions, questioning, story telling
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Cindy Stradling

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Our Clients Say

We have had the pleasure of working with Cindy Stradling to source several top notch consultants to assist us with the design and delivery of a variety of Learning and Development and HR Programs. This this successful collaboration we have truly appreciated Cindy's very high standards for members of her network, the drive and energy she brings to her work and most importantly her strong commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of her clients.

Deborah A. Fillippe, CHRL VP Human Resources Kenaidan Contracting Ltd.

Cindy has been a terrific resource to Metro! She met with us to clearly understand our needs then provided us with a shortlist of top-quality trainers for us to meet. The whole process was simple and seamless, and it saved us a lot of time in sourcing companies with specific skill sets. She's a pleasure to work with.

Gary Grant, CHRL Director, Talent Management and Training Metro Inc.

Cindy provides a very progressive and engaging training environment. We have seen her successfully provide solutions to companies and individuals from all sectors, from the sophisticated to entry level. The integrity she applies to all aspects of her business is beyond reproach.

Al Diggins President and GM Excellence Manufacturing Consortium

Cindy has been engaged by Express Scripts Canada to provide Presentation Skills training to our management team. Cindy's expertise in this area has been invaluable in supporting our leaders with their leadership development in their presentation styles.

Anthea Gomez Director, Human Resources & Corporate Services Express Scripts Canada

Cindy is the epitome of positive energy! I didn't just work with Cindy at Duplium; I continue to keep in touch with Cindy because she is a wealth of knowledge and always a delight to catch up with. If you need something or someone, just ask her, she will get it done! She embodies the unique combinations of integrity, commitment and resourcefulness. Thank you Cindy for all the times you gave me just what I needed!

Susan Orenbach Senior Human Resources Professional

We engaged Cindy to help us develop a leadership training program and provide our management with one on one coaching. Cindy's professionalism, ability to understand our challenges and develop an innovative, cost effective training program in a timely manner was truly impressive. I recommend and welcome the opportunity to work with Cindy.

Marina Lichtenberg National Manager, Talent Acquisition Canon Canada - "Your gateway to a dynamic career with Canon"

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