Generous Questions

I often thank people in webinars for “generous questions” that they ask.

Typically these are questions that cover a sensitive topic or difficult area for them. It might be something they would struggle to talk about in another context or if it was outside the private space of the webinar chat.

I often call these generous questions because they allow me to talk about difficult things. Without exception and despite the specifics for that person, the questions are always related to broader topics that concern others.

• The specific question about a regulation worry can be addressed for that person and for others who will be worried.
• The question about what to do about a mock viva with a challenging supervisor can be explored and we can look at other options for everyone.
• Not knowing how to respond to particular criticism or disagreement can be widened out for all present.

Another thing that’s quite common in webinars but which happens in real life as well is people apologising for “silly questions” or “questions that might not matter much” or “questions that are difficult”.

Of course, these apologies aren’t necessary – in fact the questions themselves are necessary because they can help the person asking to find some peace or next actions to take, assuming that they’re asking the right person.

If you have a question, ask it. And if the response can be applied more broadly than your particular circumstances then please pass it on.