Thursday, August 5, 2010

Asking Open Questions

Your questions should not be manipulative, but should be straightforward


You will get better feedback if you ask the right questions. It’s hard to rebound from a blunt “No” so use open-ended questions to elicit responses from the customer that you can work with.


Your questions should not be manipulative, but should be straightforward; slippery sales patter like “Sounds pretty good doesn’t it?” may antagonize the customer, so frame questions in a way that maintains the high level of dialogue that got you to this point.


Examples are:

  • “What do you think about our recommendation?”
  • “I’ve been talking for a while; now I’d love to hear from you.”
  • “I would appreciate some feedback.”
  • “So, what are your thoughts?”
  • “How does that sound?”
  • “Any questions?”


ACTION POINT: Use open, straightforward questions that demonstrate respect to your customer.

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