Influence: Help Competent People Grow Through Questions

Leaders do have to tell people exactly what to do when a person isn't yet competent--and confident--about the task or assignment. (The whole "leader" thing isn't just about high-concept and vision).

But how do you develop managers who are knowledgeable and committed?

You can build increased confidence and deeper understanding by asking questions designed to help them make their own discoveries and decisions. Here are seven questions to get you started as  a "coaching" leader:

 

As you become more comfortable with probing questions, you'll develop your own. In fact, what are some of your favorites now?

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Comments

[Kelly Ketelboeter]

Another great post with real world applicability Steve!

I have found the greatest challenge for some leaders is knowing when to tell and when to ask. The next challenge is knowing what to ask. The seven questions serve as a great starting point to engage managers in the process, create a dialog and build ownership.

Thanks for sharing.
Kelly