The Power of Open-Ended Questions

Open-Ended questions give us power.? When we ask others using open-ended questions, we multiply the opportunities and possibilities available to everyone involved.?

Drawing Us out of Fight, Flight, Freeze. Open-ended questions force us to think. They pull us out of our amygdala (reptilian brain) and make us use our “problem-solving brain.” Picture a crying child.? They’re upset and can’t seem to control their emotions. Ask them, “What do you want?”

What do you want to do? How can I help? What would you like to happen next? Often, the tears stop as they consider their answer.? This works with adults too.

Exploring Possibilities: Open-ended questions open the world of possibilities because they are, well, open. Using them stimulates our curiosity. We might become un-stuck.? We might escape writer’s block. We might create new relationships. When we are open, we tend to be more creative and innovative.

Stopping Manipulation: When people try to manipulate, they’re controlling the situation for their own personal gain.? They want a particular result, so they limit the choices, withhold information or even hide their true agenda.? Asking open-ended questions forces the options open again.? For example: Why are we doing this? What’s going on here? What’s happening right now?

Open-ended questions force a manipulator off their script and typically leave them scrambling to explain what they’re really trying to achieve.

Back off Bullies: When someone uses sarcasm, passive-aggressive put downs or insults, open-ended questions help us regain control and power.? For example: What does that mean? What are you saying? What’s your point? Why would you say that?

These questions shut down someone who’s trying to bully you because they force the bully to justify the meanness.

Voice tone is very important when asking open-ended questions. We want to use an even, relaxed tone of voice. Yet, we also want to project and articulate clearly what we’re asking.?

What other advantages can you share for using open-ended questions? Write Wise Communications offers and new course called, “Addressing Manipulation in the Workplace.” Check out this and our over 35 microlearning courses in our 2025 Instructional Design and Course Guide, launching soon.