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Why Asking Is The Answer

  • effieburrell
  • Sep 8
  • 2 min read

An informal coaching session
An informal coaching session


Coaching doesn’t need to be a formal, time-consuming session. In fact, it’s best done on the job and in the moment. The trick is to spot a coaching opportunity and to ask some simple questions.


Imagine someone has come to you with a problem. Ask yourself, is this a coaching opportunity?


It’s probably not if:

·       there only one clear answer to the problem

·       it’s an emergency

·       the person isn’t open to the conversation at this time

·       it isn’t an appropriate time or place


BUT if it is a chance to coach, ask them a question and give them a chance to speak while you ACTIVELY listen to their response – without judgement and follow up with another, if appropriate. Encourage them to come up with their own solution to the problem and then support them to take action.


Remember, the key is to ask, not tell.


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Powerful Questions


Here are 10 every day, simple, yet powerful coaching questions that facilitate immediate action and problem-solving that you can adjust to suit the circumstance:


  1. What do you want to achieve in this situation? (Focuses on the immediate outcome) 

  2. What are you experiencing right now that is getting in the way? (Identifies current obstacles) 

  3. What have you tried so far to resolve this? (Leverages past efforts and outcomes) 

  4. What's one small action you can take right now? (Promotes immediate, action) 

  5. What resources do you need to move forward? (Identifies necessary support or tools) 

  6. Who else could help you with this? (Encourages using internal or external networks) 

  7. What are your options here? (Brainstorms alternative approaches) 

  8. What would you do if I wasn't here to help? (Fosters independence and autonomy) 

  9. How will you know if you've been successful? (Establishes a measure of progress) 

  10. What did you learn from this experience? (Focuses on future growth and development) 

 

 

Give it a try – there is no wrong question or answer – what have you got to lose?

 

If you want to harness the power of everyday coaching, contact effie@synergea.co.uk


 
 
 

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