Employees can often feel a tinge of guilt when not knowing a specific answer to a question. This can lead to emotional distress and decreased productivity among the workforce as people begin to shy away from supervisors for fear of being asked a question. Any question.

Every employee will be faced with the circumstance where they do not know the answer to a question. There are a multitude of responses available for just such occasions, but ultimately a stammering I don't know' usually finds its way into the response. Let's examine some more comfortable alternatives to the I don't know' response.

When a question catches you off guard, it is more important to be confident in your response than it is to immediately have the answer. A solid look to the eyes of the person inquiring while letting them know that you don't have that answer off of the top of your head will let them know that you are not intimidated. A squeaky, whispered answer can give the impression that you don't know, but you should, and have therefore committed an error.

If the person continues to stare at you don't get nervous. Relax and explain to them what you do know about the subject and/or situation. This can lead to a short and decisive discussion among you and the inquiring party, or possibly a group discussion of some type. Be sure to interject your thoughts and questions along with those of others to illustrate your fervent desire to obtain the answer to the original question. Actively seeking the answer in a timely manner will help to demonstrate that you are willing to learn as well as be a team player.

While not having the answer may or may not be acceptable, the simple response of I don't know' is almost certainly frowned upon. One accepted variation is to ask for clarification of the question from the inquiring party. This demonstrates that you are actively paying attention to them and generally does not immediately frustrate people. At this point, a response is required from you. You must follow up with some indication that you do not know, but try to refrain from using those three words together. Discussing your actions to obtain the answer prior to the negative response can be a positive way to show effort without current results.

Confidence sells your point, and actions back up your confidence. Become active in searching for the answer because you will almost certainly pick up some new information along the way. Don't be afraid to let people know that you don't have the answer to every question. If everyone knew the answers all the time, then there would never be a need for more than one employee in a business.

Learn more about this author, Claudio Montes.
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