If you ask the right question will you get better results?

As communications professionals, we’re often in the position of wanting to contribute more strategically, but it can feel like your input is not valued or heard. You know you have good ideas, but sometimes the challenge is finding the right moment and way to present them to your stakeholders.

A simple but effective way to get your foot in the door is by asking strategic questions. These prompts can demonstrate your insight and offer solutions, while keeping the conversation open and collaborative.

Why Strategic Questions Matter

Strategic questions are a great way to position yourself as a thoughtful, solution-oriented communicator. Rather than just responding to requests or problems that arise, asking insightful questions allows you to engage with your stakeholders in a collaborative way by opening up a dialogue.

Prompts to Get You Started

Here are some prompts you can start using to position yourself as a strategic thinker, and opening up conversations for collaboration:

"I’m noticing X, does that match your experience?"
This prompt is excellent for drawing attention to patterns or potential issues. It signals that you’re observing trends and are curious to validate them with a subject matter expert. It’s also a great way to show that you’re looking at the bigger picture.

"I’m wondering if we could…?"
This phrase is a gentle way to introduce an idea without shutting down a conversation. I find that when you present an idea that doesn’t directly align with a senior stakeholder’s view, it can get shut down quickly. I have found this approach leads to a more open conversation around possible solutions.  It shows you’re thinking proactively about improvements, but are open to feedback and discussion.

"What do you see as the biggest challenge here?"
When you need to get across a new subject or information quickly, this question shows that you’re thinking about the obstacles before diving into a solution. It also shows your stakeholders that you value their perspective and want it to guide your approach moving forward.

Next time you’re in a meeting or preparing to offer input on a project, you might want to try one of these prompts. I’d love to hear if you have any success in shifting the dynamic, allowing you to make a bigger impact.