Business meetings can be evil things – long, aimless, soul-sucking gatherings where little is accomplished yet much is said.
Okay…maybe it’s not the donuts. But if you pay attention, you’ll notice a pattern as people talk (and talk and talk).
No one answers any questions.
Oh sure, when someone asks a question, another person inevitably says something that’s supposed to sound like an answer. There may be big words, emphatic gestures, perhaps even an attempt to gain buy-in (“Right?”). Rarely, though, is the answer one that matches the question.
And yet…every so often…a hero emerges.
Someone who heard the question, considered it, and…miracle of miracles…ANSWERED IT ON ITS OWN MERITS.
This person looks like a freakin’ genius.
Why would something as simple as answering a question matter?
It shows you listened: By addressing the concerns of the asker, you demonstrated an ability to pay attention rather than sing that little song to yourself in your head. Listening = good. Singing SexyBack in your head = bad.
It shows you care: Okay, it doesn’t make you a saint or anything, but addressing someone else’s concerns rather than advancing your own agenda is perceived as teamwork, leadership, and/or smartness.
So how do you make sure you answer the question asked?
Pay attention: I know, right? Be more obvious. But it’s the truth. And if there is an awkward pause because you suspect someone asked you a question and you weren’t listening, admit it and ask them to repeat the question.
Keep it short: The longer you talk, the more likely you are to get off on tangents. Stick to the point and make yourself shut up once you’ve addressed the matter at hand.
Confirm: After you finish answering the question, ask, “Did that answer your question?” That way, the asker can get additional clarity without having to interrupt the next person who starts talking.
I know. It’s pretty obvious. But as we all know, common sense isn’t always common practice.
Next time you’re in a meeting, pay attention to the questions asked and the answers given. Chances are, the person who actually answers the question that is asked is on the fast track to success.
Have a question you want answered? Ask it in the comments!