Take a Hard Look at Their Questions

Perhaps nothing reflects our aptitude and judgment as much as the questions we ask. Asking smart, insightful, and illuminating questions requires real brainpower. A great question necessarily reflects our understanding and judgment on an issue. Maybe that’s why so many people are bad at asking them. While we might spin an answer or project false confidence, people can’t fake the questions they ask. If you want to know how bright someone is, take a hard look at the questions they ask in any given situation. 

The best leaders assess talent by examining more closely the queries posed. They use inquiries as emblematic for other qualities, as well, including passion, learning, curiosity, intensity, focus, concern, and interest. Leaders know people reveal themselves most in the questions they ask. It’s not the answers people give, but the questions they ask which give leaders a lens into who they really are. 

What questions do you have?