Question or questioning?
As a blogger I've been unfairly labeled my some anonymous commenters as forcing my opinion. While I occasionally let the stubborn Scottish gene out, I rarely force opinions or an agenda. Those people don't know me at all. Those that do know me know that I'm more of a question guy.
I learn through asking questions to those in authority. I don't question, but I ask questions to help formulate my own opinions. I have come a long way on asking questions. Early in my career I asked too many questions. It was overwhelming and some questions took me down the wrong path. Now, I think I have a positive strategy when asking questions.
The type of question you ask and the setting is also important. For example, putting the President of a company on the spot with a valid question is almost worse than asking that same President why the fax machine doesn't wok in your department. It doesn't play well to your audience.
In this time when many employees are just thankful to have a job, they've been shy to ask valid questions or question the way things are done due to fear of losing their employment. I think a good owner or manager in this climate could learn from questions and probably has many questions to pose as well. I'm certain they welcome questions. It's just a matter of timing and getting over the fear before you ask the right question.
As usual, I'll end my blog with a question. This is how I learn. Do you still feel comfortable asking strategic questions at work or are you fearful those questions will unfairly label you?
Steve Knox was born, raised and landed back in Janesville. He encourages you to participate as he writes on Janesville and beyond as this Generation X guy supports his Janesville mission, global vision. Steve is a community blogger and is not a part of The Gazette staff. His opinion is not necessarily that of the The Gazette staff or management.
Jan 24, 2012 at 10:39 p.m.
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I always felt comfortable asking my supervisors questions about both day-to-day concerns and the larger strategic aspects. 'Felt is was my professional obligation and obligation to self, too. "If you don't ask, they can't answer 'Yes'."
. . . .
Over the course of my career I have seen too many instances of favoritism by the supervisor toward some co-workers and exclusion of others. Age discrimination. Gender discrimination. Physical appearance. Perception of "What can you do for ME?" Sadly, I suspect it is the very rare work place that doesn't experience that garbage from its so-called leaders. As bad as that is, there is often no recourse for an employee to appeal to the next higher level of management.
. . .
All we can do is to hang in there, stay involved, stay committed, and stay informed. Giving it your best each day, as you are able, and you’ll hit the exit door with no regrets.
Jan 24, 2012 at 10:11 p.m.
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Don't let the bastards get you down.
Jan 24, 2012 at 10:07 p.m.
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One of the toughest aspects of your blog, Steve is putting up with so many "writers" who cannot stay on the topic. Like most of these, so far.
. . .
Remember, Steve: Illegitimus non carborundum est.
Jan 24, 2012 at 8:47 p.m.
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"You would be bored w/o me too"
Maybe it's time for "Hannah" to make another appearance?
Jan 24, 2012 at 2:30 p.m.
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It would be boring w/o Sigma I must say even though he says silly things most of the time ! )
You would be bored w/o me too lol ! )
Jan 24, 2012 at 2:15 p.m.
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Why not sigma orange? Do you have a better choice?
Jan 24, 2012 at 1:13 p.m.
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But you ??
Jan 24, 2012 at 12:32 p.m.
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In relation to this blog, I am strongly judged on this website and labeled based on my comments and opinions....lol. Though I dont judge others based on their opinions.....Sometimes I bring up valid points, other times I stir the pot :) Someone has to keep people on their toes.
Jan 24, 2012 at 9:49 a.m.
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Nice comeback Sigma. Gotta give you credit THIS TIME.
Jan 24, 2012 at 9:09 a.m.
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Fries? Come on, they dont let me put the mop down and im not allowed near the food or customers.
Jan 24, 2012 at 7:51 a.m.
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There is no such thing as a dumb question either. keep asking and keep reporting your answers. Its how we all learn.
Jan 24, 2012 at 7:13 a.m.
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Silly question Indycoltfan, they never let Sigma leave the deep fryers to work a register.
And Sigma, I bet those "idiots" at work think you are a joy to be around all day.
Jan 24, 2012 at 6:56 a.m.
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Q to Sigma: Can I have fries with that?
Jan 24, 2012 at 6:14 a.m.
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Im asked questions pretty much all day long and every day. I work with lots of people. The ones that dont ask questions are the ones I think are idiots. The people that ask questions are the ones learning, and continual education is the key to survival.
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