Asking the right questions to the wrong people can lead to frustration and setbacks. Success depends not just on what you ask but also on who you ask. Let’s explore two scenarios:

Scenario 1: Launching a New Product or Service

When considering bringing something new to market, it’s important to seek input from the right sources:

◼ People with Relevant Experience – Those who’ve navigated similar challenges can provide valuable insights.

◼ Your Ideal Customers – Their feedback reflects your target audience’s needs and preferences.

◼ Unbiased Feedback Providers – Objective perspectives help you avoid confirmation bias.

While friends and family often mean well, their advice may lack the expertise required to guide your decisions effectively.

Scenario 2: Receiving Unwanted Answers

Asking questions doesn’t guarantee you’ll hear what you want. This is often the case when:

◼ You Ask the Wrong Questions – Even when speaking to the right people, poorly phrased or misdirected questions can lead to irrelevant responses.

◼ You Ignore Previous Advice – Failing to apply past guidance can undermine trust and communication.

◼ Your Questions Are Overloaded – Overcomplicated queries can overwhelm others, reducing clarity and impact.

When it comes to finding the right answers, both who you ask and the quality of your questions are essential. Thoughtful questions directed at the right individuals pave the way for actionable insights and informed decisions.