Cut to it and ask the question. Instead of doing a long explanation, or introducing it, or launching into an unnecessary story about the question you are about to ask, just ask the question.
The Awe question
“And what else?” creates more information and more learnings, by digging for more information.
How does it do this? I am glad you asked.
Three things it accomplishes:
- It provides more information and more options, which can lead to better decision making.
- It helps YOU focus, so you keep listening instead of responding.
- It also buys you time to think about what the person is saying. Keep in mind the first answer will rarely be the final answer, and most likely also not the best answer.
What are you listening for when you ask “And What else?”
- You want to be curious, and open minded. Listen to the answers.
- Remember repetition repetition repetition? It applies here too. It is better to offer up this question too many times than too few. Ask it 3-5 times to normally bring out all the information to discuss.
- “There’s nothing else.” Instead of silence, realize this is your goal, and do whatever you need to do, fist pump the air, moonwalk, etc. Consider this a success. It means you’ve exhausted the line of questioning.
- Move on when you feel the conversation going nowhere. Ask one final time “is there anything else?”. This signals that you think you are done, but lets the other person have one more chance to make sure nothing else is on their mind.
“And what else” – it’s always a good question. Here are other ways to use it:
- When a knowledge worker tells you something they want to do, or a course of action, inspire them with, “And what else could you do?”
- If a knowledge worker tells you they don’t like creating KB articles, use this question narrow it down further, “and what else is a challenge here for you?” as a follow up to an unclear answer to “what is the real challenge?”
- Using it as part of a weekly 1:1 or check in with knowledge workers “What’s important right now? And What else?”
- When someone is looking for more responsibility and has new ideas, give them the time to think more critically, “And what else might be possible?”
Let’s build your new habit. This is a fill in the blank for you, but just providing an example:
When this happens…write out the moment, the person, and maybe even the feelings that are your trigger.
- Someone has given you a couple responses to “what’s on your mind?” and “what else?”
Instead of…write out the old habit you want to stop doing. Be specific.
- Jumping in to give well intended advice
I will…describe your new habit.
- Repeatedly ask “and what else?” Make sure to save any advice you have until you hear “There is nothing else.”
Like what you read? Stay tuned for more in the series, and check out The One question that rules them all, and why this should be the first question you absolutely master?
