Why Should the Boss Listen to You?: The Seven Disciplines of the Trusted Strategic Advisor

6.4. Be Ready with Answers

In terms of operations, asking questions is an excellent method for triggering incremental improvement. However, the job of the trusted strategic advisor is to simultaneously develop answers and answer strategies.

There are a variety of circumstances senior executives find themselves facing that require dramatic and intensive question-and-answer preparation. These would include testimony before governmental bodies, private agencies, employees, shareholders, and directors; presentations to business groups or in academic environments; the presentation of dramatic new ideas, theories, or strategies; and dealing with angry neighbors and highly emotional situations.

From my perspective, every time there is the possibility ...