Avoid initial statements and ask simple questions instead. Keep your questions simple because there is power in a well-placed question.
My Favorite, “What Surprised You Most?
This is a surprisingly powerful question (notice the pun). It is equally applicable during a meeting or after one. In fact, I use it after the meeting when everyone is rushing to express their opinions.
I avoid the tendency to make an initial statement (or judgment) of what happened. Instead, I capture as much insight as possible from the team by going round-robin with the simple question, “What surprised you most?”
Simple Questions Are Less Intimidating
Simple questions feel less intimidating, making people more likely to respond truthfully. Complex or multi-part questions can lead to misunderstandings. People can quickly understand and answer simple questions without confusion or trying to understand hidden meanings.
The Elegance of the Five Whys
In root cause analysis, we use a problem-solving technique called The "5 Whys." The goal is to identify the root cause of a failure or defect by repeatedly asking the simple question "Why?"—typically five times.
Six Additional Favorite Simple Questions
Why is this important?
What is the challenge?
What is holding us back?
Why now?
What are we missing?
What are some additional options?
Ask Simple Questions for Better Collaboration
Simple questions are powerful in gauging opinion, managing the group, and developing recommendations based on where the herd is moving. Avoid making initial statements and, instead, ask simple questions.
Ironically, a well-placed simple question (e.g., "Why?") can spark profound insights.
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