How to Run Seminars and Workshops, 4th Edition

Chapter 9The Art of Effective QuestioningGetting Trainees Involved

What is it that makes one seminar jump while the one across the hall bumps? What is it that transforms ordinary curriculum into dynamic text? Finally, what is it that separates the great presenter from the good presenter? The answer lies in the presenter's ability to get the trainees participating and involved.

The best way of accomplishing this can be stated in one word: questioning. The title of this chapter suggests that becoming skilled in this area is the equivalent to mastering an art form. That is because effective questioning can bring even the most difficult text to life the same way an artist brings a blank canvas to life. As mentioned earlier, I am a firm believer that most conflict arising between presenters and trainees is initiated by the presenters. Additionally, I feel that one of the contributors to this problem involves questioning.

Types of Questions

When you're first examining the art of questioning, it is important to understand that, as a presenter, you can ask your trainees many kinds of questions. Each kind can be effective, depending on various criteria. So many presenters make the mistake of seldom using more than one kind of question within their training sessions. As you will see, there is a whole world of questions out there that will not only get people involved in the material being taught but will help to promote the kind of stimulating training environment that so many presenters ...