I have noted people find it hard to answer straight forward questions and it is difficult to understand why.  Today I asked   the following straight forward question to different people I interacted with during lunch time:

Have you had lunch?

I got the following responses:

• Do you want to give me lunch?
• What do you mean?
• Where do you want to take me for lunch?
• What have you cooked?
• I think it is lunch time
• What do you think?
• I guess I need lunch
• I had a snack
• I only took breakfast
• I have not understood your question
• I am your guest
• I will see you serve the lunch

None of them answered the question I asked!  Why?

What are the reasons for not giving a straight forward?

The reasons for not giving a straight forward answer could include any of the following;

• Not understood  the question
• Not heard the question
• Not sure why they are being asked the question
• In case they have already eaten , they are hesitant  to eat lunch twice
• They fear to talk
• They will answer after knowing the quality of food
• Sometimes they think it is un African to be asked the question
• Not comfortable giving an answer when other people are listening
• Lack of confidence
• They do not trust me in issues of lunch

Benefits of giving straight forward answer

Whenever you are asked a question you should give a straight forward answer to enable you to gain the trust of the other.

 

Author: John Muhaise-Bikalemesa,
Director Big Drum Advisory Services,
John.muhaise@bigdrumassociates.com

 

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