Questioning Number One

I admit it, i’m a sucker for these click bait articles about questions.

Like this one:

“The 1 Question the Most Interesting People Will Ask to Start Great Conversations”

I’m always curious about what question they think is the best, or top 5 or whatever.

This article addresses the issue of what we all tend to do when we’re at an event, a party, a networking function or whatever and we turn to the tried and true outdated boring question of ‘What do you do?” or “Where are you from?“.

Spoiler Alert:  Here is the question the article recommends:

“What’s your Story?”

Now, as much as I like this, I think it needs context.  If you just walked up to someone, or started a conversation with “What’s your story?” it could come across as a little patronizing, as in “What’s YOUR story?”

In the right context, however, I agree that this can be a great question to ask.

We had a TEDx speaker at one of our events a couple of years ago who’s talk also suggested a better question to ask.  Hers was “Who do you want to BE in the world?” and I often refer to her talk when I’m in a situation that requires an opening question.

However, I will always preface my question by telling the story of her talk and how she suggested using a different question.  The same would be true with “What’s your story?”

Likely, I will say something like:

I read an article recently that talked about being at an event like this and using a different question to start a conversation other than the usual ‘what do you do?’ The idea is to ask a question that helps us connect a little more meaningfully.  So, here’s the question it suggests I ask you:  What’s your story?

Given with a little context, it will hopefully get your intention across and help inspire more meaningful conversations.

What do you think?

And do you have any questions you think are also great ways to start conversations?  I’d love to hear them.