Questions are the answer

As leaders, we often feel the pressure to provide answers, but I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way!) that one of the most powerful tools we have is the ability to ask thoughtful questions. Thoughtful questioning opens up new perspectives, uncovers hidden challenges, and strengthens connections within our teams. By remaining curious and fostering a culture of inquiry, we not only spark creativity in others but also gain a deeper understanding of what holds us back. If you’re keen to sharpen your questioning mindset, here are a few simple ways to begin.

CADENCE CURATION

Read: How leaders can get the most out of asking questions | MIT Sloan | 3-minute read

It’s easy to lose touch with an organisation’s day-to-day functioning when you hit senior level. How can you stay creative and connected with what matters?

This short article suggests three strategies:

• Put yourself in a situation that forces you to ask new questions: Spend a day or week in an employee’s shoes to see challenges through their eyes (like Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi did).
• Get out of the bubble: Make yourself more available to the people who report to you, and practice becoming a better listener.
• Encourage curiosity: Use exercises to develop questioning skills and curiosity in your team and give space for trust to grow.

CADENCE TOOLKIT

Cadence Tool: Personal Question Burst

Here’s an exercise to try this week if you’re feeling stuck or need a new perspective on a difficult situation.

A personal question burst is essentially a rapid-fire personal brainstorm of questions, not answers. This Cadence Tool walks you through the steps of a ten-minute session to shift your mindset and generate new ideas for overcoming challenges.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Bridgewater Associates Founder Ray Dalio on how to hire well:

“Look for people who have lots of great questions. Smart people are the ones who ask the most thoughtful questions, as opposed to thinking they have all the answers. Great questions are a much better indicator of future success than great answers.”

And the perils of the unanswered question: