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The Case for Asking Sensitive Questions
We fail to correctly predict reactions
Research points out that people avoid asking sensitive questions out of fear that they would offend the other party. But when they finally did ask sensitive questions, most people were far less offended than expected.
Moreover, asking personal questions also triggered meaningful conversations that fostered stronger relationships.
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Why We Avoid Asking For Advice
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Advice Seekers Appear Smarter
The fear of appearing incompetent or an incompetent person is misplaced, as research shows that the person who is asked for advice thinks good of the person asking.
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Connection Made Thorugh Advice
Asking for advice leads to a series of interactions at the office, which gives way to exchanging information, learning and builds a meaningful connection that goes beyond the initial request for advice.
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Stressful Conversations
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Preparing For A Stressful Conversation
- Be fully aware of one’s own vulnerabilities and shortcomings.
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Curiosity leads us to generate alternatives
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Curiosity and innovation
Encouraging people to be curious generates workplace improvements.
When we are curious, we view tough situations more creatively. Studies have found that curiosity is associated with less defensive reactions to stress and less aggressive reactions to provocation.
Reduced group conflict
Curiosity encourages members of a group to put themselves in one another’s shoes and take an interest in one another’s ideas rather than focus only on their own perspective.
Thus, conflicts are less heated, and groups achieve better results.