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Lawyers (and cops interrogating people in movies) famously only ask questions to which they (think they) know the answers. And, I suppose, given that their purpose is to confirm rather than learn, it’s the right move. But I have a suspicion that the prevalence of that type of questioning in “power” situations makes it seem like a thing that everyone should do. Particularly if they want to be “successful” or project “authority.” (Sorry for all the quotation marks! I wanted to signal that I think the power, success, or authority in these scenarios is superficial. Moving on.) In the long term—as far as I can see—earned power, success, and authority are far more likely to come to those who listen. To those who ask questions to which they (think they) don’t know the answers. I’m thinking of the business owners/principals/leaders/partners/(even) politicians who ask in earnest, listen, and adapt. To my mind, that is the way. For businesses, countries, relationships, families. For systems of any kind involving people making decisions that affect other people. From a tactical standpoint, it will help you, as a business owner, discover and serve your ideal clients and customers in a far more meaningful way. Questioningly, P.S. I was in the midst of having this thought when I read (to my mind) this related piece by friend of the list, Kevin Freidberg. Something in the air? |
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