Tough questions: when to engage
It’s important to remember that not every difficult question merits a response. Sometimes it’s better to walk away than to keep trying to persuade someone. There are a few key tips to keep in mind when you find yourself in a discussion or argument that doesn’t feel productive.
More episodes in this chapter:
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Episode 1:
Tough questions: when to engage -
Episode 2:
Tough questions: when to engage -
Episode 3:
Tough questions: when to engage -
Episode 4:
Tough questions: when to engage -
Episode 5:
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Episode 6:
Tough questions: when to engage -
Episode 7:
Tough questions: when to engage -
Episode 8:
Tough questions: when to engage -
Episode 9:
Tough questions: when to engage
More on This Episode:
Another common challenge is fielding questions from people who are not interested in or open to your input.
There’s a difference between people who ask difficult questions and people who are trying to provoke you.
You can tell the difference by looking at a few things, including context, emotional cues, body language, and verbal response. Once you have a sense of who you’re talking to and what’s behind the question, you can decide if you want to continue engaging.
It’s helpful to remember that our priority is to engage with people who already agree or empathize with us to some degree and to get them to take a more active role in ending homelessness–not to convince people who disagree with us.
Getting involved
The most common question we receive is: “What can I do to help?” We all have a role to play in ending homelessness, and everyone brings unique skills, perspectives, and experiences to our shared work. Our campaign is centered around community organizing, which brings people together to advocate for systemic change and solutions.