Which of the following is an open-ended question?

• A. How can I help you today?
• B. Is that the brand you want?
• C. Is this for a special occasion?
• D. Are you looking for anything special?

Answer: (A)

Open-ended questions invite more than a yes or no and encourage the customer to share details, needs, and context. “How can I help you today?” prompts the customer to describe their situation, goals, or any issues they’re facing, which lets you tailor your assistance and keep the conversation moving forward. The other options can be answered with a simple yes, no, or a brief fact, so they don’t reveal much about what the customer truly wants or needs and often require a follow-up question to uncover more. In customer service and sales, starting with open-ended questions helps you gather richer information and guide the interaction toward a helpful solution.