Got questions? Just ask.
Often when consulting to people on how to increase their professional presence one of the strategies we share is to always ask a strategic question.
If you are in a meeting, in a forum, at a conference or with your mentor… always be prepared to stand up, stand out and always ask a strategic question.
The reasons a strategic question is such an effective engagement technique is because it will
- Increase your knowledge
- Build your profile and reputation
- Position you as an authority
- Build your confidence
- Increase your communication skills
- Stretch your presentation skills
These are powerful reasons to always be prepared with a strategic question.
Be first – be prepared with your question and be the first to ask it in a large group. Be bold and confidently introduce yourself and ask your question. Ensure your question is strategic and the context is big enough that others in the room will benefit from the answer.
While attending a huge meeting industry event (as a virtual attendee) I tweeted a question to keynote speaker, Gary Shapiro (CEO of the Consumer Electronic Association and the CES Show, one of the largest technology trade shows hosted in Las Vegas every year). Not only did he answer my question brilliantly he also used my name in his response. Funny how many people followed me on Twitter after that one mention.
People are willing to help you and engage with you when you invest the time to ask a question, especially if it adds value to the audience and allows the speaker to extend their content.
One of the mentees in our Stiletto Mentor Program was a senior leader within the Pharmaceutical industry. She was attending an industry conference in New York and wanted a strategy to stand out in the crowd, I suggested she prepare a valuable question. She did. The results were amazing and she also was given a private audience with one of the leading experts in her field. Never underestimate the power of a great question.
To prepare a great question consider the following:
Research the topic – have an idea of the topic being discussed to help craft your question.
Research the audience – understand who is in the room and how they might also benefit from your well-crafted question.
Research the speaker – if you are attending an industry conference or event know a little about the speaker, their bio or books published to know their style and expertise to direct your question for a positive response.
Stand up – when you are in a large group please stand up so everyone can see and hear you.
Use the microphone – if one is on offer, always use it.
Thank – after the meeting or presentation is complete, always thank the speaker for answering your question and let them know what you enjoyed about their response.
Have you ever met someone fabulous because you asked a question? Share your experience with us here on our blog.
