Answering Questions
Answering questions in an appropriate and thoughtful manner is critical to a successful training session.
The worst thing you could do as a trainer is to ignore the question.
Make sure you answer all questions presented. As we mentioned earlier, the worst thing you can do as a trainer is to completely ignore the student and the question. Below are best practices that send the right messages when answering questions:
- Repeat the question: Paraphrase or repeat back the question so the entire class can hear and understand the question before you answer it. This also helps to ensure that you understand the question. Initially focus on the person who asked the question and then shift eye contact to the general audience.
- Answer clearly: Don't turn the answer into a general lecture. Try to make sure your answer is brief, clear, and specific.
- Commend the student: It takes courage sometimes to ask a question in front of others. When a student asks a question, compliment it with "That's a great question" or "I'm glad you asked that."
- Be sincere: Make sure you answer students questions sincerely. Your students will usually know when your response isn't genuine.
- Be honest: If you don't know the answer to a question, let the student know that you will find out and respond later. You can always ask if one of the other students might know the answer to the question. Remember, you don't need to be the fountain-of-all-knowledge!
- Get back to the student: Finish up your answer by transitioning back to the student who asked the question.
- Get feedback: Ask the student if you answered the question and if the answer was helpful. A positive response from the student gives you permission to move on to the next topic or question.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
4-5. Why should a trainer repeat or paraphrase a student’s question before answering?
You forgot to answer the question!