What do you do if your team is resistant to active questioning techniques?

1 Identify Causes

Understanding why your team resists active questioning is the first step towards overcoming this hurdle. Start by observing team interactions and note any patterns of resistance. Is it a lack of trust, fear of criticism, or discomfort with the process itself? Engage with your team members individually to gather insights into their apprehensions. This empathetic approach will not only provide you with valuable information but also show your team that you care about their concerns and are willing to work together to address them.

4 Lead by Example

Demonstrate the value of active questioning by incorporating it into your own management style. Respond to team feedback with curiosity and openness, showing that you're willing to question your own assumptions and decisions. By modeling the behavior you want to see, you'll set a standard for communication within the team. Your example can inspire team members to mirror these techniques, gradually reducing their resistance as they witness the benefits in action.

5 Adjust Techniques

If resistance persists, consider adjusting your questioning techniques to better suit your team's dynamics. Tailor your approach to be more aligned with the team's communication style and comfort level. For instance, some teams may respond better to less direct questioning or a more gradual introduction of active questioning methods. Flexibility in your approach can help ease resistance, making the transition smoother and more acceptable to all team members.

6 Reinforce Positives

Whenever active questioning leads to positive outcomes, highlight these successes. Recognize contributions and breakthroughs that were achieved through effective questioning, reinforcing the value of this approach. Positive reinforcement can shift perceptions over time, making the team more likely to embrace active questioning as they associate it with constructive results and recognition of their efforts.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?