Asking Better Questions - Pt. 4: Unlocking Honest Conversations

Suspicious they aren’t telling you the whole story?? They’re NOT.?

In this series of posts, I’ve been reviewing some best practices for asking better questions.? (If you missed Part 1 “Are you asking the right questions?”,? here’s the?LINK)?

Jeff Wetzler’s book “Ask: Tap Into the Hidden Wisdom of People Around You for Unexpected Breakthroughs in Leadership and Life" introduces a five-step method to help you learn more from your questions.? It also has excellent exercises to help you build your skills and make better decisions.

His data blew me away:

• 85% of managers?admitted to withholding valuable info at least once from their boss
• 74% said their colleagues were also uncomfortable speaking up
• 49% said they were regularly uncomfortable bringing up issues

Most withhold information; few leaders crack this nut…?

Jeff shares what people tend to withhold, and why, and then provides five strategies on how to get your people to ‘Open Up’

For me, the most vital strategy is to?SLOW DOWN.

Jumping quickly into project updates can keep your employees from sharing what you most need to know.?

FIVE STRATEGIES:

1. Create Connection – Understand the other person, Find the right space, Make time (slow down), Meet them where they are
2. Be vulnerable and express humility
3. Let them in on your perspective and agenda
4. Inquire about their agenda --- Create a mutual agenda
5. Radiate resilience – Reinforce you can handle the input

Your turn:? Which tactic would you like to lean into in your next 1:1?

If you'd like to improve your team's effectiveness, let's talk: Schedule a free 30-minute coaching session with me today!