Ep 17: Bob Tiede – Want to be a better leader? Ask better questions

Asking good questions is a fundamental part of learning and discovery.Good questions can prompt people to challenge their own assumptions. Good questions can open the floodgates of fresh ideas. Good questions can help turn casual chitchat into meaningful conversation.The good news? Asking good questions is a skill that can be developed.Bob Tiede knows this better than most. He’s spent decades studying the art of good questions and has authored several popular books on the subject. His blog Leading With Questions is followed by leaders in more than 200 countries.Some leaders—even some well-intentioned leaders—operate like benevolent dictators. They decide what needs to be done, then they give orders. Even if they’re “friendly” about it, they miss the opportunity to develop their people and produce top results. The best leaders move from a “Let me tell you” paradigm to a “Let me ask you” orientation.* A “multiplier” leader asks questions so their people can increase their own capacity by figuring things out on their own.* Asking “What might we do?” versus “What should we do?” leads to a much more productive and free-flowing conversation.* Silence can be a powerful leadership tool. Ask a good question, then listen with your mouth closed.* How can you help create an environment that makes it safe for people to offer honest opinions about “risky” subjects?* How could improving your listening skills help you ask better questions?* In what ways can good questioning skills enhance your relationships with friends and family members? Get full access to LeaderSHOP at podcast.leadershop.net/subscribe