View or download the printable version of the Quick Guide to Asking Powerful Questions (Google Doc).
Why Ask Powerful Questions?
Asking questions is one of the most important ways a manager can help an employee think critically about a decision they need to make. Rather than giving direct instructions, the manager’s goal is to prompt the employee to build critical thinking skills so they can take ownership of the solution and be accountable for addressing their challenges.
In a coaching conversation, powerful questions can help you:
- Deliver effective feedback that helps the employee build self-awareness
- Co-create effective goals
- Develop an understanding of their career aspirations
- Manage performance
- Explore what motivates the employee
- Keep employees accountable for developing themselves and achieving results
- Foster critical thinking and take ownership over their work
Types of Questions
Asking questions is one of the core coaching skills. Knowing which questions to ask and aligning them with your conversation goals can help you clarify ideas, spark new thinking, and prompt reflection. Below are three core types of questions and how to use them effectively:
Questions for Key Coaching Moments
Use these question themes to guide meaningful conversations during common coaching moments - times when you’re helping an employee reflect, grow, or move forward: