The most powerful way to interact with others is to ask questions but that is not how we do it.

We more often talk about what we think, what we know and what we feel and totally miss the opportunity to learn and gauge the emotions of those around us.

I worked for a person in broadcasting who constantly questioned me on the latest rumors in the radio industry even though he was more connected to it than I was.

I finally said, “Why do you always ask me about the things you already know?” and he answered, “that’s how I learn more about the industry and about you”.

Asking open ended questions instead of making statements is a skill worth acquiring.

P.S., it works with children, too.