Stupid Questions Make People Smarter

Engineers have big egos. If you challenge an engineer’s opinion directly, it usually results in a wall of that ego.

So, one way to get through to them is usually with a stupid question.

Stupid questions done right can break down those walls, opening up space for better thinking and communication. Here are some ways to phrase a stupid question:

1. How did we…?
2. Do we usually…?
3. Why do we…?

Make sure you’re using the right tone and inflection, as these make a big difference.

Why does this work?

First, it takes ego out of the response. They’re now helping you by explaining.

Second, through the process of responding they have to think through their original idea. If that idea has fault it will feel funny as they explain and then you’ll see the “light-bulb” moment on their face.

Then, they’ll probably get closer to the solution you wanted them to land on in the first place. You have helped them think through the problem better and they’ve arrived at a smarter solution.

Try a stupid question next time you’re trying to make someone smarter.