When is it most appropriate for a leasing professional to ask open-ended questions?

Open-ended questions are designed to encourage a more expansive response and allow the individual to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in detail. This makes them particularly effective for gaining insight into a person's feelings because they require more than a simple yes or no answer. When leasing professionals want to understand a potential resident's needs, preferences, or concerns, asking open-ended questions can lead to more informative dialogue. For example, instead of asking, "Do you like the apartment?" a leasing professional could ask, "What do you like most about this apartment?" This approach fosters a more engaging conversation and provides valuable information about the prospective resident's feelings and desires regarding their living situation.

Using open-ended questions in this way not only encourages a relaxed and open conversation but also helps the leasing professional build rapport and trust, which is essential in the leasing process. In contrast, other options like seeking specific answers or limiting discussions do not leverage the benefits of open-ended questioning, which thrives on eliciting richer, more detailed feedback.