Handling Questions Effectively (Part 2)

Hi everyone, and welcome back to another daily English lesson! This is Part 2 of our series on handling questions effectively. Today, we’ll explore some more advanced techniques to help you confidently answer questions in any business setting.

Clarifying and Rephrasing

If a question is unclear or complex, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or rephrase it to ensure you understand it correctly. You can use phrases like:

• “Could you please clarify what you mean by…?”
• “So, if I understand correctly, you’re asking…?”
• “To make sure I’m on the same page, are you asking about…?”

Addressing Difficult Questions:

Not all questions are easy to answer. Here are some strategies for handling difficult or unexpected questions:”

• Acknowledge the question: Even if you don’t have a ready answer, acknowledge the question and show appreciation for the inquiry.
• Buy time: If you need a moment to think, use phrases like
•  
• “That’s a great question.
•  
• Let me give that some thought…” or
•  
• “I’m glad you asked that. Let me consider my response.”
•  
• Offer to follow up: If you don’t have the information readily available, offer to follow up later with a more detailed response.
• Redirect the question: If the question is irrelevant or off-topic, politely redirect the conversation back to the main point.

Maintaining Confidence:

Remember, confidence is key when handling questions.

• – Maintain eye contact with the questioner.
• – Speak clearly and confidently.
• – Use positive body language.

By practicing these techniques, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any question that comes your way.

Remember to practice handling challenging questions in a safe environment, such as with a friend or colleague.

For more in-depth learning and resources, explore our online courses and coaching programs. You’ll find everything you need to elevate your business English.