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The Power of Communication: Asking Questions

Now Let's talk about the usefulness of asking questions. The effective use of questions can have a positive effect on the communication process. There are two types of questions we're going to focus on. Closed-ended and open-ended questions. In many situations, both types will be helpful when used properly.


Close-ended questions are generally used when you are looking for a simple response. They can be answered in one or two words. They are useful to confirm information or clarify your understanding. They lead to specific answers. They are tools that are very useful in situations that require specific bits of information

Some examples of these types of questions are:

  • How many modules did you complete today?
  • Can we schedule another meeting?
  • Is everything going ok for you here?
  • How was your day at school?

All of these questions can be answered with one or two words. Close-ended questions are good when you want clear and precise answers. They are not good when you want someone to open up and speak more.


Open-ended questions are used when you want to go more in depth. They cannot be answered in one or two words. They require explanations. Are useful in situations that require an understanding of all the factors involved. They tend to begin with “what, how, tell me, describe, explain”. They are sometimes phrased as a statement.

Some examples of these types of questions are:

  • Why do you think people like working here?
  • What do we need to do to help you succeed?
  • Name 3 things that you love about your life?
  • Explain why you like art more than math?

These types of questions are great when you are trying to get a person to talk more so you can have a deeper conversation with them, collect more information, or you want to understand them better. They aren’t as great when you need specific answers and you want to cut to the chase.

Some example starters for open-ended questions are:

  • How are you…
  • What do you think….
  • Tell me about…
  • Describe how…
  • Say more about…


I encourage you to practice asking questions as much as you can. They can help you gain a lot of information and understanding.

Actively writing questions down beforehand is also a good habit to do. Especially when you are preparing for a meeting. This will help to make sure you understand the proper use of open-ended and closed-ended questions.

When you are communicating with someone, always keep in mind that perception trumps intent. So to paraphrase even though you have good intentions people might not see things the same way you do. So you must be very careful with how you communicate so as to not make people perceive you in the wrong way.

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Written by

Hans Fleurimont

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