Get Better at Conversations: Ask More Follow-Up Questions

Harvard research from Professor Allison Brooks highlights something powerful: follow-up questions are the most impactful kind of question you can ask.

When we ask more follow-up questions, we show that we’re genuinely paying attention. We make it clear that we care about what’s being shared and want to stay in the conversation. This kind of engagement leads to deeper trust, more influence, and greater connection.

Follow-up questions don’t just improve your professional relationships. Research shows they can even increase your chances of getting a second date.

Simple and Effective Follow-Up Questions

The best part is that asking follow-up questions doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some of our go-to questions that you can start using right away:

• “Can you tell me more?”

This one is a favorite in coaching conversations, as it allows the other person to expand on their thoughts in a way that feels natural and unforced.

It invites them to provide more detail and gives you a deeper understanding of their perspective. This simple question shows your genuine interest in what they have to say, while also encouraging them to open up further.

• “What does X mean to you?”

This question is especially helpful in situations where the conversation feels unclear or when feedback is being exchanged. It asks the person to articulate their understanding or emotional connection to a topic, which can help you better understand their viewpoint.

With a focus on the meaning behind a situation or action, you invite a more thoughtful and personalized response that can lead to deeper insights.

• “What’s important to you about that?”

When someone expresses a strong opinion or emotion, this question helps them articulate the underlying values, motivations, or experiences that are driving their perspective.

It brings them the opportunity to dig deeper and reflect on why something matters to them–rather than just focusing on the surface-level statement. This is particularly valuable in conversations where emotions are heightened, as it opens up space for empathy and understanding.

Ask More Follow-Up Questions for Stronger Relationships

No matter which follow-up question you choose, the key is to ask them regularly. These questions are tools for building meaningful relationships. When people feel heard and understood, they’re more likely to open up and share more.

And when they open up, they trust more. This will create an environment of mutual respect and collaboration. Whether it’s in your personal life, at work, or in a romantic relationship, asking follow-up questions is a surefire way to strengthen your bonds and improve communication.

At NextArrow, we help teams, leaders, and individuals get better at these kinds of conversations through interactive workshops and personalized coaching. We offer group sessions, one-on-one coaching, and leadership development programs that focus on behavioral and cognitive tools to create a lasting impact.

Want to get even better at the conversations that matter? Come sharpen your follow-up questions—and a whole lot more—with us.

Do you have other favorite follow-up questions you like to use? Share them below! Contact us to learn more.