What makes you say that?
Posted: Tue May 27, 2025 5:37 am
The question, “What makes you say that?” is a powerful conversational tool that encourages deeper understanding and meaningful dialogue. It’s an open-ended inquiry designed to prompt the speaker to explain their reasoning, feelings, or evidence behind a statement or opinion. This simple question can transform superficial conversations into insightful exchanges, and it holds value across many settings—whether in personal relationships, professional discussions, negotiations, or conflict resolution.
Why ask “What makes you say that?”
At its core, this question shows genuine curiosity and interest. Instead of accepting a statement at face value, it invites the speaker to unpack their thoughts, which can lead to greater clarity for both parties. This is particularly useful when the statement seems surprising, unclear, or potentially contentious.
For example, if someone says, “I don’t think this project will succeed,” responding with “What makes you say that?” encourages them to explain their doubts or concerns. Are they worried about resources? Do they feel the timeline is unrealistic? Or perhaps they’ve seen similar projects fail in the past. By inviting elaboration, you gain insight into their buy telemarketing data perspective, which is essential for addressing the root cause of their hesitation or objection.
How it promotes better communication
This question fosters an environment where people feel heard and respected. When you ask someone to explain their reasoning, it signals that you value their viewpoint and want to understand it fully. This helps build trust and encourages openness.
Moreover, “What makes you say that?” helps avoid misunderstandings. People often communicate in ways that leave out important context or assumptions. Without clarifying questions, you might misinterpret their meaning, leading to unnecessary conflict or confusion.
Asking for reasons behind a statement also challenges the speaker to reflect on their own beliefs. Sometimes, people hold opinions based on incomplete information, emotional reactions, or assumptions. By explaining their reasoning, they might reconsider or better articulate their stance, leading to a more thoughtful conversation.
Using the question effectively
Tone and context matter a great deal when asking “What makes you say that?” It should come across as sincere curiosity rather than skepticism or confrontation. In spoken conversations, your tone should be gentle and inviting. For example, you might say, “That’s interesting—what makes you say that?” with a calm, non-judgmental voice.
In written communication, adding a friendly or empathetic phrase around the question can help, such as, “I’d love to understand your perspective better. What makes you say that?” This reduces the risk of the question sounding blunt or challenging.
Why ask “What makes you say that?”
At its core, this question shows genuine curiosity and interest. Instead of accepting a statement at face value, it invites the speaker to unpack their thoughts, which can lead to greater clarity for both parties. This is particularly useful when the statement seems surprising, unclear, or potentially contentious.
For example, if someone says, “I don’t think this project will succeed,” responding with “What makes you say that?” encourages them to explain their doubts or concerns. Are they worried about resources? Do they feel the timeline is unrealistic? Or perhaps they’ve seen similar projects fail in the past. By inviting elaboration, you gain insight into their buy telemarketing data perspective, which is essential for addressing the root cause of their hesitation or objection.
How it promotes better communication
This question fosters an environment where people feel heard and respected. When you ask someone to explain their reasoning, it signals that you value their viewpoint and want to understand it fully. This helps build trust and encourages openness.
Moreover, “What makes you say that?” helps avoid misunderstandings. People often communicate in ways that leave out important context or assumptions. Without clarifying questions, you might misinterpret their meaning, leading to unnecessary conflict or confusion.
Asking for reasons behind a statement also challenges the speaker to reflect on their own beliefs. Sometimes, people hold opinions based on incomplete information, emotional reactions, or assumptions. By explaining their reasoning, they might reconsider or better articulate their stance, leading to a more thoughtful conversation.
Using the question effectively
Tone and context matter a great deal when asking “What makes you say that?” It should come across as sincere curiosity rather than skepticism or confrontation. In spoken conversations, your tone should be gentle and inviting. For example, you might say, “That’s interesting—what makes you say that?” with a calm, non-judgmental voice.
In written communication, adding a friendly or empathetic phrase around the question can help, such as, “I’d love to understand your perspective better. What makes you say that?” This reduces the risk of the question sounding blunt or challenging.