Art of asking questions

   I come across many people that are more pushing an agenda. But when they can't take their arguments further they use the "I was just asking a question" come back. 

   So the art of asking questions needs to be more clearly defined. First: question are always asking for clarification and understanding. They should never be based off your own personal assumptions, understanding, or agenda.

   Second: If the question is based off your own personal assumptions or other things. You then need to next move to clarification questions to understand what the other person is saying.  A good way to do that is to use the last few words they said or wrote down and put it as a question.  

  Third. Always ask a few questions to make sure you understood what the other person was saying. Then let them clarify if necessary.  

This is also a good way to build trust with someone. 

Never go into something with an agenda. Every negotiation will flow better if you make discovery questions first. 

Make the person feel heard.