Asking the right follow-up question can change an entire relationship.

One additional question can change the depth of a relationship. Most conversations stop at the first answer, which is usually the surface version, and the interesting material sits just behind it, available to anyone who asks once more.

The next time someone gives you a brief answer about something that matters, ask a second question. What was that like, or what do you mean by that. Then wait. It is a small habit and it is close to the whole technique of knowing people well.