One of the best questions I learned to ask in college.
The Copywriter Column #178
I studied religion and philosophy during my undergraduate studies, and Christian social ethics during my graduate program.
(I know – borderline controversial, heady stuff in the right context.)
But both taught me the importance of asking one specific question when engaging in dialogue with nearly any person about any topic.
Think of it as a shortcut to building rapport and understanding.
Here it is:
“Can you define what you mean when you say [insert word/phrase here]?”
I know. It seems too obvious.
But you’d be surprised at how often most everybody assumes other people know what they’re talking about or that just because we’re in the same social context (i.e. a church, a political rally, a wedding, etc.), we share similar worldviews.
These types of assumptions are breeding grounds for misunderstanding and conflict. The easiest way out? Define what you’re working with.
It’s true in everyday life, but it’s true in business relationships too.
For instance, if you’re working with a client, ask them to define their expectations for your relationship. Ask them to define not only their goals but what they mean when they say something like, “I’m most concerned about tracking our spending.” Are they focused on CAC, ROAS, or ROI? What do those various metrics mean to them?
Forget what they mean to you for just 30 seconds! Find where you both align, call it out, and create a working definition together so you’re both on the same page.
Or maybe your coworker asks you to help write a series of hooks for several ad sets. Don’t assume you have the same definition of a “hook” as they do. Ask for clarity: Can you define what you mean when you say “hook”? There are different styles of hooks, so which kind are you after?
Stop assuming.
Start defining.
It’s one of the best low-effort ways to make yourself just a smidge more likable. 😉
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