Start by asking powerful questions. Thoughtful questions trigger a mental reflex known as “instinctive elaboration.” This reflex laser-focuses the brain on finding the answer. If your questions are open-ended, even better. For example, saying, “Help me understand” signals that the questioner is keen to learn. And asking, “What surprised you?”

... See more

Executive performance coach Julie Gurner on the power of better questions:

“The questions you ask yourself will largely determine the answers you get.

• “Why am I not successful?” You’ll get answers that berate you.


• “How can I succeed here?” You’ll get answers that push you.

Here are some examples of powerful questions to ask someone, that you can modify per your needs:

• What do you really want?

• What about this is important to you?

• What does that look like?

• How do you feel about this?

• What’s next?

• What else is possible?

• What’s right about this?

• What are your concerns?

• What is standing in your way?

• Tell me

... See more