10 Tips for Asking Better Questions as a Manager, Employer, or Leader
Ask Questions That Demand Thought
10 Tips for Asking Better Questions as a Manager, Employer, or Leader
Great leaders know that asking the right questions can unlock insights, spark innovation, and build stronger relationships. Here are 10 tips to help you ask better questions, reimagined to be actionable and entirely yours
.
1. Embrace a Curious Mindset
Ask questions as if you're seeing the issue for the first time. Childlike curiosity helps uncover assumptions and challenge hidden beliefs.
Instead of: "What’s the plan?"
Try: "Why do we believe this approach will work?"
This opens the door to rethinking strategies and identifying overlooked pitfalls.
2. Frame Questions with Respect
How you phrase a question matters—especially if you’re in a position of authority. A slight tweak in tone can signal whether you’re here to judge or to learn.
Replace: "Show me how you’re doing this."
With: "Can you walk me through this? I’d love to understand your process."
This shifts the focus to collaboration and respect for their expertise.
3. Ask Questions That Demand Thought
Generic, throwaway questions lead to blank stares. Thought-provoking questions prompt real engagement.
Avoid: "Does anyone have any questions?"
Use: "What’s one thing that could derail this plan?"
You’ll move from silence to meaningful dialogue that uncovers potential risks or ideas.
4. Simplify Your Approach
Keep your questions straightforward. Overloading someone with jargon or multi-layered inquiries leads to confusion.
Replace: "What’s your take on the timeline, budget, and potential challenges all at once?"
With: "What’s the biggest challenge we might face?"
Clear questions produce clear answers.
5. Signal Tough Conversations with Permission
Tough feedback or sensitive topics require tact. Asking for permission shows respect and puts the other person at ease.
Start with: "Would you be open to some feedback?"
This creates space for trust and increases the likelihood of a productive conversation.
6. Be Specific About the Outcome
Vague questions produce vague answers. Be clear about the kind of response you’re seeking.
Instead of: "How’s everything going?"
Ask: "What’s one thing you’d like to improve about this project?"
Specificity focuses the discussion on actionable insights.
7. Use Questions to Empower, Not Interrogate
Questions can feel like tests or opportunities. Use your wording to empower people rather than put them on the defensive.
Try: "What’s your opinion on how we could solve this issue?"
This signals that their input matters and encourages ownership of the solution.
8. Ask Follow-Up Questions
The first answer often scratches the surface. Dig deeper with follow-up questions to uncover the full picture.
For example: "That’s a great point—can you tell me more about how we might apply it?"
Follow-ups show you’re listening and value their ideas.
9. Pause for Reflection
Not all great answers come immediately. Allow people time to reflect by pausing after you ask a question.
Ask: "What’s the most significant improvement we could make right now?"
Then wait. Silence encourages thoughtful, well-constructed answers.
10. Practice Active Listening
A good question is only effective if you’re truly listening to the response. Use body language, eye contact, and verbal affirmations to show you’re engaged.
Instead of moving to the next question right away, acknowledge: "That’s a great insight—how do you think we could implement it?"
Active listening fosters trust and deepens the conversation.
By using these 10 tips, you’ll move from simply asking questions to asking questions that spark action, uncover hidden opportunities, and create stronger connections.
What’s one question you could ask today to create a breakthrough moment? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to hear how you’re improving your conversations!