May Coaching Tip

Powerful Questioning is at the core of effective coaching. With one caveat—understand that asking a question that is appropriate to the emotional state, learning style, timing and situation is as important as the actual question. This takes effective listening, skill and practice.

Elements of a great question:
· They are clear and direct.
· They are non-judgmental.
· They are transparent—no motive.
· They are real and have the best interest of the employee in mind.
· They are inquisitive and keep the employee thinking and in curiosity.
· They are based in the present and keep the employee in the ‘here and now’ versus the ‘why’.

Why ask questions instead of give directions?
· Your answers are old answers and they work for you, not the person you are coaching.
· If you ask questions, people will self-discover and take responsibility for their results. People really do like their own ideas better!