Power-Up #2: Hand The Question Back

Hey Reader,

Fab here, back with Power-Up #2.

Recently, I ran the last session of a six month experiment with a small group of our ambassadors.

We got talking about something that probably sounds familiar. Someone you're training keeps asking the same question. The one you know they know. "Do I put this here?" Again. And again. (And again 🙃)

Most of us reach for one of two answers. "Yep, you're right", on repeat, which keeps the questions coming. Or "you know the answer to this", which can land a lot like "why are you asking me?"

So we talked about a third option. Hand the question back. "What would you do?"

Same boundary. Completely different delivery.

Power-Up #2: hand the question back

Next time someone asks you something they probably already know, hand it back.

• Spot the question. It's one you've answered or taught before.
• Hand it back in one line: "What would you do?"
• Stay quiet. Let the gap do the work.
• Ask "what else?" if they stop too early.

I've done this with mentees for years. The "oh s***, I did know that" face is the whole point.

Please don't ask it and then walk away though 😉 Always follow up with your own answer.

How To Actually Do This

Handing a question back can mean different things, so pick the line that fits:

• They probably know the answer: "Based on what you already know, what would you do?"
• You're not sure what they're really asking: "What made you ask that?"
• They stopped too early: "And what else?"
• You need a minute: "Tell me a bit more first. What's the context?"

Pick one, please for the love of God just one. (Yes, I'm talking to the part of you that wants to use all four on Tuesday.)

Step-By-Step Process

1. Pick one person who keeps asking you the same kind of question.
2. Check you've actually taught them the answer. If you haven't, teach it first and hand it back next time.
3. Choose your line from the four above and put it somewhere you'll see it.
4. Next time the question comes, hand it back and stay quiet a few seconds longer than feels comfortable.
5. Confirm what they say, or fill in what's missing.
6. After a week, check whether they're asking less and answering better. If not, tweak your line.

What's the question you keep answering that someone else could answer themselves? 🙃

Always cheering you on,

Fab 🤘

Humble brag alert...

Quick one before you go: on Thu 29 Oct, 6:30pm UK, I'm doing a free live session with Canva World Tour on presenting your ideas with real confidence.

​Save your spot →​