You Can't Know It All

As an instructor, how many times have you had a participant ask a question you didn't know the answer to? The most experienced instructors out there will have this happen on a regular basis. Here are some suggested ways you can address this problem.

1. It's okay to admit you don't know the answer - we're not expected to know everything!
2. You could mention that this is something you would like to learn more about yourself and offer to find out and report back to the group.
3. Ask the other participants for their ideas and input - it's amazing how much your participants know collectively and how much you can learn from them!
4. Get clarification or more information from the inquirer about what they are really trying to find out. You might be able to still help them with an issue even though you may not be able to immediately answer their direct question to you.
5. Keep your confidence and don't become rattled or shaken. Participants want to view you as someone who can guide them, and may question how helpful you are if you don't appear confident.
Share your thoughts by commenting.
Beth Wickham, Director