When do you need to replace ‘No’ and ‘Know?’
‘No’ stops:
Innovation
Relationships
Engagement
‘Know’ opens possibilities and solutions.
Don’t you want to ‘know’ about your colleagues, employees, friends, and family thoughts and feelings?
Next time you catch yourself rushing to ‘no,’ stop and ask questions to ‘know.’
Need some suggestions?
“No, we tried that before.” Becomes:
“What has changed or been created since the last time we looked at this?”
“Tell me your thought process?”
“Did we really try what I think she means before; have I listened?”
“No, it is against policy.” Becomes:
“Is there a benefit for taking a second look at this?”
“How might we accommodate this need in another way?”
“How is this policy serving the organization? Does it still make sense?”
“No, we don’t have time.” Becomes:
“Am I responding like my parents?”
“How much time will this take?”
“What will we experience or gain if we take the time?”
After all, most people don’t necessarily need a ‘yes.’
They just like to be considered.
Develop Power with Grace.
Asking thoughtful questions is one aspect.
The best questions foster understanding, spark innovation, diffuse negative conflict, and build influence –
Spiral Question poses a question semiweekly, Monday and Wednesday.
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