Here's how you can navigate a difficult work situation when faced with a question.

Firstly, you should feel no obligation to say you know the answer when you don’t. In fact, I think when people admit they don’t know the answer to some thing it actually gives them more credibility when they try to fudge their way out of it. Secondly, if you don’t know, this little phrase can flip the perception from “ that person doesn’t know the thing“ to “when that person doesn’t know something they become curious and learn.“ So what you could say is, “That’s a really interesting question and I actually don’t know the answer. When would you like me to get back to you after I’ve done a little research?”

Remember, we often feel like we have to answer a question when it’s asked of us when actually, we don’t! It’s all in how you handle it. If you are asked something you find difficult or challenging, you can ask for a moment to think on it. “Hmmm great question, let me take a moment to think about that. In the meantime, what else could I answer for you instead?” And if you don’t have anything you would like to answer with by the end of the interaction, you simple say “And regarding X question, is there any reason you would prefer I partially answer now, or are you happy for me to take it with me and come back to you with a full answer by Y?” That gives them the opportunity to collaborate with you so you are both working together.

First, just breathe. Second, take a moment to reflect on the problem Third, write it down Fourth, break it into small chunks Fifth, figure solution for each chunk Sixth, take action on the solutions Hope this helps :)

Em alguma situa??o difícil que você è confrontado, o primeiro passo é manter a calma. Saber lidar com situa??es de press?o é uma prova do seu profissionalismo. Respire fundo e dê a si mesmo um momento para processar a pergunta. N?o responda sem ter fundamentos ou pensamentos incompletos. Ao manter sua compostura, você transmite confian?a e se dá o tempo necessário para formular uma resposta coerente.

Back in school, we were taught that if you don't know or have difficulty answering a question, don't stay silent, but start by repeating the question. Your answer can consist of two parts: repeating the question + your thoughts on the matter. For example: "What was the most difficult crisis you faced at your previous job and how did you handle it?" Answer: "Any job always involves crisis moments, it is important to be able to anticipate them, but if a crisis occurs, it is necessary to get out of it with maximum efficiency. The most difficult crisis moment at my previous job I consider to be ...." With this answer you 1) don't stay silent, 2) calm yourself down, 3) structure your thoughts and find the best solution.

Se n?o se responde o que n?o se sabe, já imaginou - por sua vez - responder o que n?o entende(u)? Parece óbvio, mas num contexto corporativo difícil, de press?o ou crise, n?o se pode seguir com "a carro?a na frente dos bois". Antes de responder algo, garanta que entendeu completamente o que está sendo questionado. Para ajudar neste entendimento, se necessário, pe?a para a pessoa repetir a pergunta ou fazê-la de uma outra forma. Questione os pontos de eventuais dúvidas e ambiguidade e entenda o contexto / cenário ao redor. Se você entendeu o todo, agora terá condi??es de responder o que foi questionado.

Ask to have the question repeated to you and then rephrase and repeat it back to ensure proper understanding. Say something like, "Thank you for the clarification. I hear you asking ..... Is this correct?" This process gives you time to think and formulate a relevant response.

Second, in order to ensure effective communication, it's essential to clarify or rephrase questions when needed, and to grasp the underlying intent behind them. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of the context and facilitates accurate responses.

Faced with tough questions, always pause and think. This brief pause helps you collect your thoughts, ensuring your response is well considered and not impulsive. Reflect on the question's intent whether it seeks information, tests your knowledge, or challenges your decision, as understanding the purpose helps tailor your response effectively. Staying calm and composed projects confidence, positively influencing the situation. Thoughtful reflection allows comprehensive responses, showcasing analytical skills while addressing the question. This approach encourages critical thinking, leading to personal and professional growth. Reflecting wisely helps you respond thoughtfully, maintain composure, and foster a collaborative work environment.

I think it is often the case that we think we need to jump in and respond immediately when asked a question. One of the hardest things to navigate in the workplace is those difficult situations, or awkward or uncomfortable questions. I agree that understanding the question and why it is being asked will help, and yet I think that may lead to overthinking. Asking some of your own questions in a non-reactive way can help to navigate and lead to an open dialogue without defensiveness. Once you've reflected then you can answer in a calm, well-thought out way. And it's also okay that if you're uncomfortable in that moment that you ask for time to reflect outside of the current situation. Being you and speaking your truth is best.

Third, in certain situations, it may be necessary to seek additional information as you consider the broader context. Gathering as much detail as possible is crucial to avoid making hasty conclusions and ensure well-informed responses

Respond with Transparency: When addressing the difficult question, aim for honesty and transparency. Avoid evasiveness or defensiveness, as those can undermine your credibility. Acknowledge the complexity of the situation, if appropriate.

Complete honesty is paramount in our responses. We not only provide answers but also offer insights into the analysis process undertaken. If there's insufficient information or expertise on a topic, we transparently acknowledge it with phrases such as 'I don't know' or 'I lack the expertise in this area' to maintain credibility and trust.

Here's the thing; your solutions don't even have to be the best ones possible. The simple fact that you have offered shows your ability to think strategically and that you are looking to move forward. You might not have the best solutions but by offering them you might kick off discussions that help lead to what is the best answer for everyone.

Aim to broaden the scope of your response by offering alternative perspectives or suggesting various avenues to explore for a more comprehensive answer. Additionally, acknowledge instances where the lack of complete details or context may pose challenges in providing a definitive answer, emphasize the importance of gathering additional information for better insights.

Focus on Solutions, Not Blame: Rather than dwelling on the problem or assigning blame, shift the conversation towards constructive solutions. Emphasize what you or the team can do to address the issue.

Proponer ideas y preguntarnos juntos que podría funcionar mejor, es una buena forma de proponer una solución compartida. Desde mi experiencia contribuir a un diálogo que genere sinergia compartida para ver las oportunidades que tenemos juntos de encontrar soluciones , es un punto fuerte a la hora crecer en compromiso y en la búsqueda de alternativas viables para cualquier situación problemática.

Aconteceu isso comigo em uma live ao vivo quando no chat fizeram uma pergunta que um entrevistador havia feito durante uma entrevista. Eu nunca tinha pensado naquela pergunta, mas respondi dizendo que eu desconhecia a pergunta, mas se me fosse feita eu responderia da seguinte forma. Na hora utilizei o meu conhecimento e respondi da forma que achava ser a mais adequada.

Following up is a real power move here. People don't do it because it makes them uncomfortable. From simple emails, Teams messages to face to face conversations, following up is what shows that you are willing to resolve the problem and that you are solutions focused.

In this type of situation Power Mapping can be really effective. Here is a brief overview that I help my clients with when they are faced with difficult questions that they need support to answer: Key Play – Identify the key players. Scene Analysis – Get an understanding of who's in power and who you need to win over. Action Plan – Develop plans on how to get the attention of the key figures. The Network – Leverage your own to help you along. Move Freely – Understand the office politics and move through with all your grace. Stay Agile – Keep updated on your map as things change.