114. How to Ask Better Questions, and Give Better Feedback

In this solo episode, I’m diving into something we all run into: how to ask for help or feedback in a way that actually gets you what you need, and how to give focused, respectful feedback when someone else asks. We’ve all been there: you crowdsource advice and end up with a flood of tangents, venting, or random noise before you get anything useful. I break down why vague questions lead to scattered responses, share my C + B + F formula (Context + Boundaries + Format), and explain how small changes can improve the way we interact, collaborate, and support each other, whether online, in meetings, or in everyday life. Along the way, I share insights from Amanda Palmer, Adam Grant, Chris Voss, and Priya Parker, plus some relatable stories (including one about asking if anyone’s been to the zoo, you’ll laugh!). This episode is packed with actionable advice you can use right now to improve communication at work and beyond. Resources & Links: TED Talk: The art of asking by Amanda Palmer Give and Take: A Revolutionary Approach to Success by Adam Grant Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It by Chris Voss The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters by Priya Parker Join The Directory Of The West Get our FREE resource for Writing a Strong Job Description  Get our FREE resource for Making the Most of Your Internship Email us at [e-mail] Subscribe to Of The West's Newsletters List your jobs on ⁠Of The West Connect with Jessie: Follow on Instagram @ofthewest.co and @mrsjjarv Follow on Facebook @jobsofthewest Check out the Of The West website Be sure to subscribe/follow the show so you never miss an episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices