Love Questions

We all want our teams to succeed.  We think we are giving them what they need to succeed. We share our knowledge thinking our experiences should be absorbed as the way to success.  We smile as we think to ourselves – “I gave them everything the need.”  

But then the first question comes…the second question comes…the third question follows.  You have two ways to respond:  “Don’t think about it – just do what I told you” or “Let’s talk about it – what part are you wrestling with or want to learn more”.

Do questions indicate you failed?

Absolutely not!  You have sparked critical thinking.  The information is challenging a prior perspective or prior knowledge.  There is engagement with the material you shared and it is being processed. There is desire to be successful and apply new knowledge.

The Gallup organization studies employee engagement.  Their recent work has shown that less than 30% of the workforce is engaged in the workplace and more than 70% is either not engaged or actively disengaged and acting out their disengagement.

I would venture to guess that our most engaged team members are the ones that ask questions, desire clarifications, and share their thoughts – they feel a deep connection to their work and are passionate about what they do.  They are striving to be successful and are providing you with a great opportunity.  You get to deepen your beliefs and water the ground that will grow critical thinkers to strengthen your organization.

Welcome, embrace, and celebrate questions – someone is listening.