How to Answer an Unanswerable Question

Whether you are a leader, a teacher, or a parent, you may be called upon to answer especially difficult questions right now, questions that have no satisfying answers. But this doesn’t mean you can’t form a helpful and honest response. The best thing to do is listen for the need underneath the question. Often times, when people are in a heightened state of stress, they are unable to communicate as clearly as they’d like. When answering, acknowledge the original question being asked, but try to ultimately address the underlying need. For example, if someone is worried about job stability, you might say, “I suspect some of these questions are rooted in concerns about your financial wellbeing and how this recession is going to impact the company. Let me tell you specifically what we’ve done, and what we’re planning to do with respect to our, and your, career.” You should also try to remember that everyone is handling this situation differently. Don’t take it personally if people come off as angry or frustrated in tone. Most times, it is just a result of their own anxieties and they are looking to you for guidance and stability.