You asked, Ken answers ...This item is filed under these categories:
Communication
|  | Whenever I ask my manager a question, he answers it with a question. This can be frustrating, since I would like his help or I would not have asked him the question in the first place. What can I do? |
|  | Don't you like questions when you ask a question? Depending upon your manager's mode of questioning, the outcome can be destructive or constructive. For example, there can be real problems if he responds with questions such as, "Can't you do anything on your own?" "Why are you bothering me?" "What's the matter with you?" These responses are the hallmark of weak managers who do not understand the critical role played by communication. If this sounds like your manager, you should try other channels to get your questions answered, such as through experienced peers, other managers, and a mentor if there is one. At the same time, if your manager responds to your inquiries with questions that help you generate your own resolution strategies, this is far better than merely tossing you an answer and sending you on your way. Doing so merely sets the stage for more of the same questions in the future. Some of the more productive questions might be, "What approach are you using now?" "How did you decide on that step?" "When did you first see that problem?" With a Socratic approach, one likely outcome is an increase in your problem solving skills, confidence, and independence. There is no question that this is an outcome in which everybody wins. |
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