What's in a question?
Not all questions are created equal
Questions with yes / no limited possible responses or numbers / dates are closed questions and if asked too many those you are speaking with might feel interrogated
Open questions allow the person you're speaking with to answer in their own words which is more informative for both of you
One exception in open questions is the word why. Why makes us defensive, pushes us to justify our decision behaviour, instead ask more open quesitons starting with, " what..?" or "tell me about..?"
The power of neutral honest language
Being objective sends a powerful message about not being manipulative. When you share facts, data, and knowledge for example you might say, "We're implementing a new marketing plan for the product launch." No need to talk it up or put it down - just the facts...
Refrain from judgments and criticism; again being factual helps you," the merger will create uncertainty"
Take responsibility for opinions, impressions, and reactions. "I know it's a challenging time for everyone."
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