Asking, instead of telling is a skill that offers many benefits in building rapport. Often we get so caught up in our own communication, we fail to remember we have a better opportunity to build rapport by asking - and listening. Research tells us asking questions does the following for you. Challenge yourself to ask more questions and see how it affects your rapport building.

Enhances your credibility

Effective asking can enhance your credibility. In other people's minds, asking questions about a topic makes you appear more knowledgeable than others who just talk about it.

Contributes towards a comfortable environment

Effective asking can make the other person feel comfortable. Most human beings prefer talking to listening to such an extent that, given the choice, that is what we do. We all like the feeling of being listened to.

Directs thinking

Effective asking can cause the other person to think about what you want them to think about. If you think your idea is right for them, instead of telling, you can cause the other person to think about it by asking the right questions. You can even help the other party visualize it and come to the right conclusion on their own.

Can gently signal disagreement

Effective asking can gently signal that you disagree. A carefully placed question, however, will not only signal that you are not actually agreeing but will cause the other party to think through their thinking and maybe see the very reason why you cannot agree.

Provides think time

Effective asking can provide valuable think time. Most of us speak at about 120 - 160 words per minute. We think much faster than that (about 700 words per minute). You may have noticed that when another person is speaking, you have plenty of time to formulate your thoughts.