Successful people know that asking basic questions is critical to excelling in your role and getting … [+]
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Most people have experienced a time when they wanted to ask a question but hesitated out of concern for looking stupid. They want to understand a concept but fear that the other person will question why they don’t already know the information. Your concern for looking incompetent may be misplaced. Here are three ways asking a basic question will enhance your professional reputation:
1. You will understand the work better, so you can be better at your job.
It is great to feel competent and confident about the work you are doing. The more information you know, the better you can be at your job. One easy and straightforward way to increase your competence and confidence in your work is by asking questions. Don’t let fear of asking a question be a barrier for you for mastering your role.
2. You will gain respect from others for having the courage to say what they were thinking.
If you have a question, many times others have the same question. So never preface your question with, “This may be a dumb question but…” Have the courage to ask the question other people want the answer to.
Think back to a time when someone else asked the question you wanted to ask and remember how glad you were (and maybe even relieved) that the person asked the question. You got the information you needed. You may remember feeling that you wished you had the courage to speak up like they did.
Put ego aside. Believe in yourself. Believe in your role and your organization. Get the information you need to support the mission. Prioritize the goal of something greater over how people might perceive you based on a question that people won’t even remember you asked the next day.
3. You will remind yourself and others that there is no such thing as a “dumb” question.
Your question may be basic, but it is not dumb. Basic is good. In fact, basic is critical. Basic questions are the key to helping you to feel more confident in your work. Knowing the “who,” “what,” “when,” “where,” “why” and “how” is the foundational information you need to move forward, apply the more complex thinking and analysis and get the answer you need. Overcome your hesitation because there is a reward on the other side.
Successful professionals take ownership of what they know and don’t know. They do what it takes to obtain the information they need to be great at their job. They focus on being competent and do not focus on how others perceive their competence. Ask the questions you need to better comprehend your work. In asking basic questions that others may be hesitant to ask, you will gain the respect of your colleagues and remind everyone that there are no “dumb” questions.
How has asking basic questions helped you in your career? Share with me your stories and thoughts via Twitter or LinkedIn.
