Here are the 3 Greatest Questions Leaders Should Ask Their People

1. How Are You?

Practice: Listen attentively and focus on their response.

Outcome: This builds trust and reveals deeper insights into their personal and professional lives.

Quote: “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” — Stephen R. Covey

2. How Can I Help You Do Your Job Better?

Practice: Suspend your own agenda and listen.

Outcome: Encourages honest feedback and collaborative problem-solving.

Quote: “The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things.” — Ronald Reagan

3. What Is Your Greatest Fear Right Now?

Practice: Create an environment where honesty about fears is encouraged.

Outcome: Fosters trust and unity within the team.

Quote: “Employees who believe that management is concerned about them as a whole person – not just an employee – are more productive, more satisfied, more fulfilled.” — Anne M. Mulch

Implementation Tips

Frequency: Ask these questions weekly or at least monthly.

Listening: After asking, pause and listen without interrupting.

Consistency: Regularly asking these questions will transform your team dynamics over time.

By integrating these three questions into your leadership practice, you can create a more engaged, inspired, and connected team, leading to better results for everyone involved.