Are You Asking the Best Questions?

With the proliferation of social networking, it’s easier and faster than ever to learn from the community.

 

By Jason W. Womack, MEd, MA

Productivity and technology: Those two words could (or even should) go hand in hand. It’s possible now to work smarter, and more ubiquitously, than ever.

How do you know, however, that the technology you’re using and the effort you’re expending is worthwhile? Are you both effective AND efficient? One way to find out is to learn from the people around you.

Here are two questions I suggest you ask people you know when you’re looking to get more from your technology—the gear, tools, and apps:

1. What do you use for…?

This is a question I often ask when I’m trying to get something done that I have a feeling could be done easier (meaning faster, cheaper, and/or better). Sample questions I’ve asked include: “What program/app/tool do you use to track expenses while you’re traveling?” Or “What app do you use to organize items on your to-do lists?”

2. Who do you know who…?

With the proliferation of social networking—and access to those networks via your tablet, smart phone, and desktop computer—it’s easier and faster than ever to learn from the community. Once you define something to get better at, use this question to tap your network for expertise.

It’s time to ask new questions; in doing so, you may notice an increase in output and a life and work style that leads to success.

For more information, visit http://www.womackcompany.com or www.twitter.com/jasonwomack or e-mail Jason@WomackCompany.com.

Lorri Freifeld
Lorri Freifeld is the editor/publisher of Training magazine. She writes on a number of topics, including talent management, training technology, and leadership development. She spearheads two awards programs: the Training APEX Awards and Emerging Training Leaders. A writer/editor for the last 30 years, she has held editing positions at a variety of publications and holds a Master’s degree in journalism from New York University.