The Art of Asking the Right Questions

What makes a good question? Is it really that hard to ask a question that will open up discussions, create learning and sharing, and result in productive communications?

The truth is, most of us don’t know how to ask good questions, or when we do ask a really great question, it is by accident. There are several ways to ask questions. Some people seem really good at it, while others use a random, what-ever-pops-into-their-head approach.

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Turning Complaints into Commitments

What are people complaining about in your organisation?

  • “We never have a chance to really talk about the big picture of our work. We’re under so much pressure to deliver what is needed now. There’s little opportunity to understand how things tie in with larger goals; consequently, there’s no breathing space for creativity or innovation.“
  • “I’d be able to grow and develop at work if I didn’t have to babysit around here…If my subordinates didn’t come to me for every little decision and if they would take more initiative, I’d be freer to do the same in my own job.”
  • “There’s too much talking behind one’s back here. People talk about others, but rarely to others. I don’t feel people come to me directly; I find out about things from other people. If I knew and had a chance to talk to the person with a complaint, then we could confront the issues and work on solutions.”

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Change Management – How to bring social networking technology into business without it feeling like a pill

Where do you stand when it comes to Web 2.0 and the new tools of social networking like blogging, Facebook, Linked In, My Space and Plaxo? As far as you’re concerned, is it still a fad to be ignored – the domain of the Gen Ys and the Techno Geeks from Gen X?  Have you fully embraced the power of the networking, collaboration and business development opportunities these tools have to offer you and your business? Or are you still dabbling – sitting the fence somewhere.

I confess that I am a dabbler when faced with the practical application of new technologies. It’s not that I don’t appreciate what these new technologies can do. I do – it comes with the territory of being an ideas person. In fact, It’s a big part of my new book which is all about Change and what works in the 21st century. It’s just that the practical application of these things is not really my strong suit. Frankly, I find it a time-consuming, boring hassle to learn. But heh, I have my own blog now which only took a year or so from the idea to finally get my act together - so that’s saying something.

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