Pro Parenting Tip #50: The Magic Question
When dealing with angry, irrational customers, service reps are taught one powerful question to ask. This simple question has the magical ability to both calm the person down AND get them on your side.
It works just as well with angry, irrational teenagers.
Here it is:
What would you do if you were me?
Here's why this question is so effective.
1. It implies that you want to help them.
2. It evokes empathy by having them put themselves in your shoes.
3. It encourages them to come up with a reasonable solution.
4. It empowers them by giving them a voice.
So, the next time your teen is having a meltdown because you took their phone away or is pissed off that you won't give them the keys to the car, ask them, "what would you do if you were me?"
Be prepared to get a snarky answer at first. Teens may sense a trap.
But if you truly listen and sincerely consider their solution, you can turn a conflict into a connection AND help your teen develop the critical life skills of problem-solving and conflict resolution.
Everybody wins!
That's what I would do if I were you!
THE BOTTOM LINE
Dealing with irate customers, service reps ask one potent question to diffuse tension and foster cooperation. It's just as effective with angry teens.
EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF CONNECTION
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