Let’s start with an interesting research insight. Through their research, CO2 partners, an executive coaching firm, discovered 95% of the leaders preferred to be asked questions rather than be told what to do. Yet, these same leaders gave instructions rather than ask colleagues for inputs 58% of the time.
That presents a curious situation. How does a leader realise this and become an enabler? This is where the tool of questioning aids in introspection, discovery, and revelation for yourself and the teams you lead.
Ken Coleman said: “Good questions inform, great questions transform.” This is why, at Breakthrough, questions play a pivotal role in our facilitation process. We use questions to create an empowering dialoguing space, thus enabling teams to see different perspectives of their challenges and arrive at solutions.
We’ve created a ready reckoner of back-pocket questions for you to use in different contexts. If you lead a team or will lead one in the future, these questions will be precious to help you reflect and transform. Whether you want to pose them to yourself, during one-on-one meetings or team meetings, the golden rule is always – don’t judge and stay curious!
7 self-reflection questions for leaders
1. Am I the best in the team or the best for the team?
2. In what ways can I provide more goal clarity for my team?
3. What are my challenges in leadership?
4. What are my strengths in leading the team?
5. What are some of the growth opportunities I need to explore for my team?
6. What responsibilities do I need to let go of to grow?
7. What are some of the unconscious biases I have toward my team?
7 questions to display care for your remote team
1. What is the highlight of your workday?
2. How do you feel about your work-life balance right now?
3. What’s your favourite part of working remotely?
4. What do you see as your strength while working from home?
5. What is one thing I could do for you to make remote working easier or better?
6. What makes you feel connected/disconnected with your team?
7. Do you feel included in the team’s decisions? Why/Why not?
1. Why are we doing what we are doing?
2. What are some of the opportunities for change that we haven’t identified?
3. What are some of the boundaries we assume that hinder innovation?
4. In what areas does the team need the freedom to make quick decisions?
5. What are some of the challenges/pain points of customers not being addressed?
6. What areas are we falling behind that other companies excel at?
7. What new trends should we capitalise on?
Warren Berger, in his book “A More Beautiful Question: The Power of Inquiry to Spark Breakthrough Ideas,” says: “A beautiful question is an ambitious yet actionable question that can begin to shift the way we perceive or think about something—and that might serve as a catalyst to bring about change.”
And since you have read this far, here is a Breakthrough secret tip: We recommend you set aside time for reflection every day/week. Even better, do it in front of a mirror so you can question your reflection!
We wish you simple questions and powerful breakthroughs!
In the lists above, which question caught your attention and why? Leave us a comment.
