Archive for December, 2009
Ask a question! Solve a problem!
Posted by: | CommentsThe art and power of asking questions is the subject of a new book, “Just Ask” by author Bill McGrane of McGrane Global Centers in Union, KY. In his presentation at a recent Florence Rotary Club luncheon meeting, McGrane suggested that problems can be solved simply by asking questions.
Whether the problem is an unsolved personal issue, a request for help from a friend or family member, or something as simple as a lull in a conversation, the right question will go a long way towards a potential solution.
If a nagging worry is bothering you, ask yourself, “What do you think the problem is?” When a friend brings you a problem, ask, “If you weren’t coming to me, if you had to resolve this on your own, what would you do?” If you are at a table or meeting with a group of people and you see someone is getting upset or angry, or if it all of a sudden talk stops completely, using the power of affirmation in the form of a question can redirect the conversation in a very powerful and positive way.
McGrane proposed the idea that questions can help us respond with grace and ease if we are in the habit of using them. Be prepared by writing down 10 scripted questions you can use at any time. To order the book, “Just Ask” or to learn about other personal development tools available from the McGrane Global Centers, visit their Web site, www.mcgrane.com or call 859-384-6333. For more information about the Florence Rotary Club and service projects, visit the Web site at www.florencerotary.org or contact John Salyers, president, at jsalyers7@insightbb.com or 859-653-9399.
Chuck Seal
An Often Not-So-Honest Environment
Posted by: | CommentsIn business today, or in any relationship, are you finding that people are not really saying what is on their minds? Do you find that the environment is often not conducive for them to feel comfortable sharing their points of view? They may say, “I’m not going to tell anyone what I think; I might lose my job. What if we downsize? I’m older than most of you.” As a result, we are having to pay a big price in our government, institutions, and organizations. We may placate people and try to make them believe and feel something that is not reality – to keep them in line and under our control. Yet, with the skill of interviewing questions and a sincerely concerned attitude, we could discover everyone’s point of view and take it into consideration. We could then creatively find a point of view that could serve everyone, and possibly find solutions to some, perhaps, longstanding issues.
