Fascinating leaders ask questions. The rest are dullards.
Leaders who don’t ask questions are uninteresting, short-sighted, self-absorbed, and ineffective.
Bores don’t ask questions. Success requires curiosity.
Tips from the best:
Bob Tiede, owner and author of, “LeadingWithQuestions.com:”
- Most of the best questions are short and simple.
- Always ask the second question.
- Be comfortable with silence.
Most importantly, when asking questions:
Mark Miller, VP of Leadership Development Chick-fil-A:
“You rarely get answers to questions you don’t ask. Ask the question.” The most important thing about curiosity, after having it, is expressing it.
After asking a question, Mark suggests that you, “Let the other person do 95% of the talking – there is no need for you to answer your own questions.”
Mark also suggests that you avoid, “Multiple questions masquerading as a single question – Ask only one question at a time.”
- Ask.
- Listen.
- Don’t ask more than one question at a time.
Warren Berger, author of, “A More Beautiful Question:”
“Your questions should be rooted in genuine interest and curiosity. They shouldn’t be phony or have an agenda.”
“Questions can be confrontational by nature, so try to ask them with a tone/language that shows respect to the person that is being questioned.”
“If you’re going to ask questions be prepared to take ownership of them, to actually act on them, and rally others to join you.”
- Authenticity.
- Respect.
- Commitment.
Pam Smith, VP for Student Advancement at Biblical Theological Seminary:
Consider that a great question can be a simple one: In fact, one word can be powerful: “And?” can add surprising depth to an answer.
What question-asking tips work for you?
What should leaders avoid, when asking questions?
Don’t miss: “What if you Aren’t That Smart.” More insight on asking questions from Mark Miller, Warren Berger, Bob Tiede, and Pam Smith.