3 Questions That Move Experienced Leaders Forward
“When issues are confusing and decisions are stressful, I’m the go-to person for my team. In some ways that’s good, but I wonder what I’m doing to cause dependency?” (Asked during a coaching conversation.)
It’s impressive when leaders ask probing questions about themselves.
Ego loves being the go-to person. But dependency makes people weak. And leaders get in the way when they need to be needed.
3 questions that move experienced leaders forward:
Question one: What do you want for your team?
“I want my leaders to feel empowered to make decisions on their own.”
Question two: Who are your go-to people?
My friend said, “I’m often asked who my go-to people are. I tell them I have a coach.” He added five others to his list. Three people are outside his company and three inside.
“Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future.” Unknown
Question three: How did you collect a team of go-to people?
He answered this question with three practices.
- Seek out people with technical expertise.
- Follow up with people you meet at industry specific events. Perhaps there’s a connection.
- Build relationships with talented people inside your organization.
My observations suggest character traits matter too.
Leaders with a personal team of go-to people practice humility. They admire the skills and talents of others. They respect outside perspectives. And they relentlessly improve themselves.
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Summary:
- What do you want for others?
- How are you doing it yourself?
- How can others apply what you know?
Well timed questions enable people to answer their own questions.
Note: This line of questioning works with experienced leaders. Novices may not know.
What questions help people find their own path forward?
Still curious:
Have you Fallen into the Destructive Practice of Offering Harmful Help
The Seven Powers of Powerful Questions
The Goal of Helping is Enabling, Not More Helping
3 Key Questions for Moving Forward
Thank you for taking the time to write these articles every day. I save them so I can reference them.
It’s my pleasure, Brandi. It feels good to be useful.
Motivational Interviewing at its core.
I hadn’t thought of that. Thanks for the reminder.
I like the idea of having half your go-to people outside your organization. That gives you additional perspective on whatever you may be facing.
Great point, Jennifer. It’s good to have a few dogs on the team that don’t have personal agendas.
What’s my goal?
Has the situation or problem changed?
What should I change or what new approach should I try?
Who has expertise in this area?
How can I get their help?
Thanks Paul. I really like, “How has the situation or problem changed?” I think it helps me think bigger. A historical perspective sounds like a useful thing to take when trying to move forward.