Five Tips for Using Great Questions

1. Ask “What’s really going on here?” One organizational development consultant I know keeps this question uppermost in his mind whenever he is working with a client. He says it helps him focus on the real, underlying issues and not get distracted by obvious concerns which aren’t usually what really needs to be solved.

2. When asked for advice, ask a question instead. People learn more and become proficient when they think things through themselves. Ask a good question and then be quiet while they come up with their own solution.

3. Slow down. Let your answer emerge. Often, we miss out when we seek solutions too quickly. “Stay with” your question longer than you may think necessary and most likely you will discover richer answers.

4. Avoid and challenge the “Yeah, I know” syndrome. The next time someone offers you a solution when faced with a dilemma, stop yourself when tempted to respond, “I know.” Chances are that you really don’t know, based on the fact that you’re in the situation! This knee-jerk response is just your brain in defensive posturing and it closes off inquiry. Allow yourself to be open instead.

5. Work with a good set of questions daily. Journal using a great question or use brainstorming sessions. There is richness and power in great questions that you can’t get to any other way!



Five Tips for Using Great Questions - To learn more about this author, visit Sue Lindgren's Website.

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