The challenge of Precision Answering is to think before we speak so that we can structure what we say. As a result of this structuring we communicate more effectively and our credibility is higher. Learning to give bullet-point answers is classic Precision Answering, forcing us to become more disciplined in how we think and how we communicate. … [Read more...]
Complexity
The art of questionstorming
Most of us are already familiar with brainstorming, a technique for generating new ideas as rapidly as possible, without stopping to judge or discuss them. The theory behind brainstorming is that genuinely creative ideas often look silly or useless at first, so we need tools that help us suspend disbelief and keep us focused on generating fresh ideas, one after another. … [Read more...]
Sharpening your answering skills
In the Precision Questioning workshop we often describe PQ as a way of learning how to get the question out of our mind and into our mouth. The challenge is making this happen at the speed of discussion. If we are too slow to formulate our question, then the opportunity is lost, or we end up asking a question that is poorly formulated. … [Read more...]
Using Precision Answering in Email
Answering email creates endless opportunities for building skill at Precision Answering. Email is easier to edit than speech, so before you press that "Send" key, pause for a half-second. Re-read the question they asked, re-read the answer you gave, and then ask yourself: Have I been clear? Crisp? Concise? … [Read more...]
Category Review – Questions of Clarification
Clarification is one of the seven categories of analytical questions that constitute the Precision Questioning Toolkit—the category focused on meanings of the words, concepts, and data that we encounter in our work. Asking clarification questions is a simple but effective way to improve your understanding and your work efficiency. Unfortunately, clarification questions are often the ones that people think are the “stupid questions.” Imagine this: You’re sitting in a meeting and someone says: “If … [Read more...]