Inquisitively Asking Clarifying Questions
There are important and critical times when clarifying questions are not only helpful but necessary. When that is what the situation needs or demands, knowing how to ask them respectfully and expertly is a skill.
Communication Intelligence explores this topic today with two sources from different professional fields.
Neil Thompson
“I work with technical professionals so they can present more effectively, especially in front of non-technical audiences” says Neil Thompson, an engineer and the founder at Teach the Geek.
“Because of the technical nature of their presentations, it’s common for professionals to get questions after their presentations. To answer those questions, it’s best for them to ask clarifying questions to ensure that they're answering the right question.”
He has specific counsel for how doing it can be best accomplished.
“I’m a big proponent repeating the question back to the asker in the professional’s own words and then asking the asker whether they (the professional) understood the question correctly,” Thompson says.
He explains why he does it and additionally recommends it.
“The asker will feel respected because the answerer took the time to fully understand the question and the answerer will answer the question without making assumptions about what the asker meant,” Thompson says. “I wrote a blog post about this.”
Stewart Parnacott
“Clarifying questions are valuable tools in promoting understanding and fostering respectful interactions,” says Stewart Parnacott, a nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner and instructor at the Baylor College of Medicine.
He shares important insight and offers a necessary reminder.
“It is crucial to approach them with humility and genuine curiosity rather than implying that the query is rhetorical or assuming a superior stance,” Parnacott says of best practices and what to avoid if understanding is the objective.
Stress can often lead people astray in communications yet that impulse is shortsighted and reckless.
“Respectful communication is the cornerstone of successful interactions, especially in healthcare, where clear and empathetic dialogue is essential for providing optimal patient care,” Parnacott says.
“I find that these inquiries play a significant role in ensuring mutual comprehension,” he adds. “By seeking clarification, we demonstrate active listening and genuine interest in the perspectives and experiences of others.”
This is helpful to the present interaction, the professional relationship and future interactions and collaboration.
“This approach fosters an environment of trust and openness, where all parties feel heard and valued,” Parnacott has learned.
How we communicate determines how we are received by other people and in situations where we depend on others, it’s unwise to come across in a manner that is anything less than respectful, professional and sensitive.
“One key aspect to watch out for when using clarifying questions is the tone and phrasing employed,” Parnacott says. “It is essential to frame questions in a non-judgmental and non-threatening manner, avoiding any language that might come across as condescending. The goal is to create a safe space for open dialogue, where individuals feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and opinions without fear of criticism.”
Measurement is deemed important to him when determining the effectiveness of communications and relationship trust and reliability from a professional perspective.
“An indicator that the process of using clarifying questions is working well is when it leads to improved communication and deeper understanding,” Parnacott says.
“When individuals feel encouraged to share their insights and are met with respect and consideration, it enhances the overall dynamics of the conversation. Moreover, clarifying questions can be a powerful tool in resolving misunderstandings and addressing potential misconceptions.”
Questions that don’t get asked can prove costly, egregiously so. Questions asked well usually will deliver desired understanding and collaboration.
“In the healthcare setting, employing clarifying questions can lead to more accurate patient assessments, better treatment planning and increased patient satisfaction,” Parnacot says.
“By actively seeking clarification from patients about their concerns, symptoms and preferences, healthcare providers can offer tailored care that aligns with the patient’s needs and values,” he adds.
Not only do the people an organization serves prosper with this approach, so do the people working together.
“Respectful and effective communication through clarifying questions is vital for healthcare professionals seeking to enhance patient care, build strong relationships with colleagues and foster an inclusive and supportive work environment,” Parnacott says.
“It empowers individuals to express themselves openly and honestly,” he adds, “facilitating collaborative decision-making and improving overall outcomes.”
###
Publisher’s Note:
*Advertising in Communication Intelligence is available through (paid) links, ads in articles, section sponsorships, expanded business listings, the book store and job and collaboration listings.
*Communication Intelligence also now offers professional writing services: email the publisher — see the upper right-hand corner of this website — with questions or to get started.
