We will never know everything, and as Neil deGrasse Tyson observed, “A great challenge of life is knowing enough to think you’re doing it right, but not enough to know you’re doing it wrong.”
Two powerful things happen when we ask questions:
- Others are challenged to dig deeper;
- We expand our own perspective.
Too many people in positions of power and authority allow their ego to get in the way of effective leadership when they act like they are the smartest person in the room and already have all the answers. Not surprisingly, when we act like we do not need input others stop contributing. That is why humility is one of the most important character traits of great leaders. Humble leaders know that a team is better when all the members are curious, thinking, and contributing.
Research also shows that an amazing thing happens in the brain when others ask for our input—our brains get energized and function better. Part of this is no doubt a result of feeling valued along with the challenge associated with problem solving.
But, asking questions is only half of the equation, listening to the answers is the other half.
When asking questions it is important to listen with authentic interest, both for the benefit of other person, in showing courtesy and respect, and for our own benefit, to glean value from the answer.
A valuable resource to improve your question asking skills is John Maxwell’s book, Good Leaders Ask Great Questions.
A good reminder for leaders is to tell less and to ask more.
Herb Mast is a Leadership Coach and Employee Engagement Specialist. Learn how he can assist you in implementing the principles and concepts presented here.