Questioning techniques lead to better decisionmaking from "summary" of Leadership Is Language by L. David Marquet
Effective leadership relies on the ability to ask the right questions at the right time. By using questioning techniques, leaders can empower their team members to think critically, make informed decisions, and take ownership of their work. When leaders ask open-ended questions, they encourage team members to explore different perspectives and consider various options before making a decision. This not only leads to better decision-making but also fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation within the team. Questioning techniques also help leaders avoid falling into the trap of "leader-knows-best" mentality. By asking questions instead of giving orders, leaders signal to their team members that their input is valued and that their opinions matter. This creates a sense of psychological safety within the team, where team members feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and ideas without fear of judgment or retribution. Furthermore, questioning techniques can help leaders uncover hidden assumptions and biases that may be influencing decision-making processes. By asking probing questions, leaders can challenge the status quo and encourage their team members to think more critically about the underlying reasons behind their choices. This can lead to more thoughtful and deliberate decision-making, as team members are forced to justify their actions and consider alternative viewpoints. In addition, questioning techniques can help leaders identify and address any gaps in their team's knowledge or understanding of a situation. By asking clarifying questions, leaders can ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards a common goal. This can prevent misunderstandings and miscommunications that could lead to poor decision-making or inefficiencies within the team.- Questioning techniques are a powerful tool that leaders can use to facilitate better decision-making, foster a culture of collaboration and innovation, challenge assumptions and biases, and ensure that everyone on the team is working towards a common goal. By mastering the art of asking the right questions, leaders can empower their team members to think critically, communicate effectively, and ultimately achieve greater success together.
