How to Turn Questions Into Statements
Communicating directly with other people can enhance understanding and thereby improve relationships. Asking questions can be a way to gather information, but it can also be an indirect way of communicating. For example, sometimes a person may regularly ask questions when she really wishes to speak more directly. Communicate assertively and precisely -- learn how to turn questions into statements to eliminate misunderstandings and miscommunications.
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Instructions
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Become aware of your tendency to use questions instead of statements. You may use questions instead of statements when you feel unsure about someone's response. Using questions in communication can become a habit that you must work to break.
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Think before you speak to recognize times that you ask questions when you really wish to make a statement instead. For example, when you need something, instead of asking indirectly, communicate your needs with an assertive statement. Determine whether you are really asking a question to learn the answer or whether you have a need or desire behind the question.
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Rephrase the question as a statement. For example, a question that may communicate a need might be "Are you coming with me?" In this case, you may really want someone to come with you, but instead of communicating this directly, you ask a question. Communicate your desire by saying, "I would like you to come with me." Another example might be, "Are you wearing that to dinner?" Rephrase this question to a statement such as, "I wish you would wear the blue blazer instead."
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Tips & Warnings
When you raise your awareness of this habit, you can work to change it. According to the Decision Quiz website, using questions instead of statements can create feelings of manipulation and defensiveness in people. Using statements instead of questions makes communication clear.
References
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