The Art Of Asking Questions | Dan Moulthrop | TEDxSHHS

Summary

The speaker shares valuable insights on the art of asking meaningful questions, emphasizing curiosity, empathy, and simplicity. Through personal stories and lessons from interactions with influential figures like Vietnam veterans, Studs Terkel, and Allen Ginsberg, the speaker illustrates how asking thoughtful questions can unlock deep conversations. Key takeaways include the importance of being unafraid, curious, and informed, using the right words, and striving for empathy. The speaker concludes with a favorite question, 'What was that like for you?' and reminds the audience to be gracious in receiving others' responses.

Takeaways

• 🤔 Curiosity begins with a thought and leads to questions, which then foster learning.
• 😲 People often want to share significant experiences, even if they are painful.
• 📚 Studs Terkel's interviews demonstrated deep curiosity about people's work and feelings, providing valuable insights through thoughtful questions.
• 🧠 Being curious about others' experiences and why things are the way they are is essential.
• ❓ Asking obvious questions can sometimes lead to important revelations that haven't been addressed yet.
• 💬 The right words matter when asking questions, as they can open doors to meaningful conversations.
• 😌 Empathy is crucial in interviews and asking questions, especially when dealing with experiences vastly different from your own.
• 📖 Being informed about your subject shows respect and helps avoid redundant questions.
• 📝 Keep questions simple and focused; sometimes the most basic question, like 'why,' is the most impactful.
• ❤️ The best questions come from genuine curiosity, such as 'What was that like for you?' which invites authentic sharing of personal experiences.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the speaker's message in the transcript?

The main theme is the importance of asking good questions, being curious, and understanding that asking thoughtful questions can lead to learning and meaningful conversations.

Why does the speaker emphasize the need to be unafraid when asking questions?

The speaker emphasizes this because many people are hesitant to ask questions, especially about difficult or personal topics, but often people are willing and even want to share their experiences, no matter how painful.

Who is Studs Terkel, and why is he mentioned in the speech?

Studs Terkel was a renowned interviewer and oral historian. He is mentioned as an example of someone who mastered the art of asking thoughtful and empathetic questions, particularly about people’s work and life experiences.

What lesson does the speaker draw from interviewing a former Green Beret who ran a homeless shelter?

The lesson is that people often want to talk about experiences that have shaped them, even if they are painful. The speaker learned to be unafraid to ask about these deep, personal experiences.

What is the significance of the 'obvious question' according to the speaker?

The speaker suggests that sometimes the most obvious question is the most important one, but it can often go unasked. Asking an obvious question can unlock new information or perspectives.

What does the speaker mean by 'words matter' in the context of asking questions?

The speaker means that the specific words and phrasing used in a question can have a significant impact on the quality and depth of the response. Asking well-constructed questions can lead to more meaningful conversations.

Why does the speaker believe empathy is crucial when asking questions?

Empathy allows the person asking questions to better connect with the experiences of others, especially when those experiences are vastly different from their own. It helps in creating a genuine and open dialogue.

How did the speaker handle the challenge of interviewing Allen Ginsberg?

The speaker spent a long time researching Ginsberg's work to ensure he would not ask questions Ginsberg had already answered in previous interviews. This taught the speaker the importance of being well-informed before asking questions.

What does the speaker describe as their favorite question to ask during interviews?

The speaker's favorite question is 'What's that like for you?' because it opens up a conversation about personal experiences that the questioner hasn't lived through and shows a deep curiosity and empathy.

What is the final lesson the speaker wants to leave the audience with about asking questions?

The final lesson is to be gracious when receiving answers, as the person responding is offering a gift of their time and experience. It's important to acknowledge and appreciate that.