Asking follow-up questions makes people like you more
What they found
People who ask more questions - especially follow-up questions about what the other person just said - are liked significantly more. In speed dating, the question-askers got more second dates.
How they know
Researchers at Harvard analyzed over 300 live conversations, including speed dates, counting question types against how much partners liked each other afterward.
What it means for you
In your next meeting, follow what they say instead of preparing your next line. One honest follow-up question does more than a polished introduction.
The limits
Measured on first conversations between strangers, mostly students. It is the interest behind the question that works - a list of questions read off a card does not.
This is a short takeaway in our own words, not a reproduction of the study. For the method, the sample and the caveats, read the original.
