Episode 6: There's Always A Question Behind the Question

Will it be hot today? It’s a simple question that seems to solicit one of two answers–yes or no. But in real life, it may not be that simple–especially if the question is asked of a technical person. The answer may contain long, wandering stories of interconnected ideas instead of an explicit yes or no answer. There is always a question behind the question. What is the definition of hot? What part of the day should be evaluated? What geographic location should be used as a reference point? Any one of these questions can lead to debate and an unproductive fixation on precision. In this episode, envisioneer Michael Erickson explains how to use the artistic skills everybody has (see episode 5) to hold the space in a conversation until coherence is reached. Only then can communication truly occur and you can, in his words, “go forth and be powerful.” It’s more wisdom from “the guy what draws.”