What questions are you asking yourself? Your team?
As leaders, the questions we ask ourselves and our teams have a profound impact on the quality of our conversations, decisions, and ultimately, our outcomes. Thoughtful and thought-provoking questions can unlock new insights, challenge assumptions, and foster a culture of curiosity and growth.
Consider the power of open-ended questions versus closed-ended questions.
Asking are you happy/fulfilled/challenged? Will gain very different insights to: What makes you happy/fulfilled/challenged?
When we ask simple yes or no questions, we limit the depth of engagement and critical thinking. On the other hand, open-ended questions that begin with “what,” “how,” or “why” invite exploration, reflection, and diverse perspectives. They encourage individuals to dig deeper, examine their beliefs, and contribute their unique insights.
It’s important to be mindful of the impact of our questioning style.
While “why” questions can sometimes put people on the defensive, reframing them as “what” or “how” questions can create a safer space for dialogue. By focusing on understanding and learning rather than blaming, we can foster an environment of openness and trust.
Here are 11 questions that can serve as catalysts for critical thinking and meaningful discussions within your team:
- “What is the underlying problem or challenge we are trying to solve here?”
- “What assumptions are we making that might be limiting our thinking?”
- “What would success look like if we pursued this path?”
- “What are the potential risks and rewards associated with this decision?”
- “How does this align with our core values and long-term vision?”
- “What alternative approaches or perspectives should we consider?”
- “What can we learn from past failures or successes in similar situations?”
- “What if we approached this problem from a completely different angle?”
- “How might this decision impact our customers/clients/stakeholders?”
- “What possibilities and opportunities can we uncover within this challenge?”
- “What questions are we not asking, that could lead to new insights?”
As a leader, ask yourself: Are you posing thought-provoking questions that ignite curiosity and promote deeper thinking? Are you challenging yourself and your team to explore new possibilities?
Take a moment to reflect on the questions you regularly ask, and consider how they contribute to a culture of growth, innovation, and collaboration.
What are some of your favorite questions to ask your team? How do you encourage them to think critically and embrace curiosity?