What are the best techniques for answering tough questions during group training?

2 Listen actively

When someone asks you a tough question, don't interrupt, dismiss, or ignore them. Instead, listen actively and show that you respect their perspective and curiosity. Repeat or rephrase the question to make sure you understand it correctly and to buy yourself some time to think. You can also ask for clarification or examples if the question is vague, ambiguous, or complex. Listening actively can help you avoid misunderstandings, show empathy, and build trust with your audience.

3 Use the STAR method

The STAR method is a useful technique for answering tough questions that require you to demonstrate your skills, knowledge, or experience. It stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. You can use it to structure your answer in a clear and logical way that showcases your achievements and value. For example, if someone asks you how you handled a difficult situation in a previous training session, you can use the STAR method to describe the situation, the task you had to accomplish, the action you took, and the result you achieved.

5 Stay calm and positive

One of the most important techniques for answering tough questions during group training is to stay calm and positive. Don't let your emotions get the best of you and don't take the questions personally. Remember that tough questions are not necessarily hostile or malicious, but rather opportunities to engage, educate, and impress your audience. Keep your tone polite, respectful, and confident, and avoid arguments, sarcasm, or insults. Focus on the facts, evidence, and logic of your answer, and highlight the benefits and solutions for your audience.

6 Ask for feedback

After answering a tough question, don't just move on to the next topic or question. Instead, ask for feedback from the person who asked the question and from the rest of the audience. This can help you check if your answer was satisfactory, clear, and relevant, and if you need to provide more information, examples, or explanations. Asking for feedback can also show that you value your audience's opinions, input, and learning, and that you are open to dialogue and improvement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?