Ask openended questions from "summary" of The Lost Art of Listening by Michael P. Nichols
When engaging in a conversation, it is important to ask questions that allow the other person to express themselves fully. Open-ended questions are a powerful tool in this regard. These questions cannot be answered with a simple "yes" or "no," but instead require the speaker to provide more detailed responses. By asking open-ended questions, you are encouraging the other person to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a deeper and more meaningful way.
Open-ended questions are particularly valuable when trying to gain insight into someone's emotions or perspectives. For example, instead of asking, "Did you have a good day?" you could ask, "Tell me about your day. What was the highlight for you?" This second question invites the other person to elaborate on their experiences and provides you with a better understanding of how they are feeling.
In addition to encouraging deeper self-expression, open-ended questions can also help to foster a sense of connection and rapport between individuals. When you ask someone to share their thoughts and feelings with you, you are demonstrating a genuine interest in their perspective. This can help to build trust and strengthen your relationship with the other person.
However, it is important to use open-ended questions judiciously. Asking too many open-ended questions in rapid succession can feel overwhelming to the other person and may come across as intrusive. It is important to strike a balance between asking open-ended questions and allowing the other person space to share at their own pace.
In summary, asking open-ended questions is a valuable skill that can enhance communication and deepen relationships. By using these questions effectively, you can encourage others to express themselves fully, gain insight into their emotions and perspectives, and build stronger connections with them.
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