Most people suck at answering questions.

They fail to think about the question behind the question.

Here’s a framework for impactful responses:

You get asked dozens of questions per day.

Each one is an opportunity to show your credibility and build trust.

🚫 If you answer poorly?

They start doubting your competence.

✅ If you answer well?

They trust you and are grateful you’re on the team.

Answering questions is higher stakes than most people realize.

Doing it well is a competitive advantage.

The secret to increasing your effectiveness?

Always consider the "question behind the question” (QBQ).

What does this mean?

When a person asks you something, there's the surface question—but there's often a deeper layer.

A few signs you should address the QBQ:

• You have to repeat yourself
• Lots of follow-ups
• They’re still skeptical
• They ask oddly specific questions

These are all indicators that your original answer isn’t landing.

Folks don’t necessarily have ulterior motives--they're just looking for more depth.

There could be a deeper worry, concern, or simply curiosity.

And it’s usually subconscious.