5 Keys to Empowerment Through Inquiry

What is empowerment through inquiry? It’s responding to an employee’s question with a question. But, it isn’t just about keeping them in suspense.

Empowerment through inquiry will grow your people!

It’s about empowering your team to navigate through the uncertainty themselves. Just as a hang glider uses the currents to soar higher, you can use questions to elevate your team’s problem-solving skills and self-sufficiency. Consider how you can harness the power of inquiry to foster a more dynamic, resilient team. When an employee brings you a question, try asking him/her:

• “What leads you to ask this?” This question encourages reflection on the problem’s origin. It helps you understand the context and the subordinate’s thought process, much like identifying the right thermal to gain altitude.
• “Have you encountered something similar before?” Prompting your team members to draw on past experiences is akin to using known flight paths. It encourages them to rely on their knowledge and insights, potentially leading to self-generated solutions.
• “What options have you considered?” This question acts as a thermal, lifting your subordinate’s problem-solving skills. Encourage them to explore potential solutions before seeking guidance. It’s about finding the lift within the challenge.
• “How do you think this aligns with our goals?” Aligning their query with the team’s objectives is like charting a course that ensures their efforts contribute meaningfully to the journey. It fosters strategic thinking and prioritization.
• “What support do you need to find a solution?” Instead of directly providing an answer, asking what support they need empowers your team member to take ownership of the solution. With you acting as the wind beneath their wings, you’re guiding them to soar independently.

Empowerment through inquiry means transforming every question into an opportunity for growth. (This is also true at evaluation time – asking questions can help you rethink criticism.) As a leader, you can not only build a team capable of navigating the complex currents of the business world but also foster a culture of curiosity, resilience, and empowerment. Remember, the goal isn’t to withhold answers but to guide your team to find the lift in the turbulence themselves. Your role as a leader is to prepare your team to soar, equipped with confidence and the skills to navigate the journey ahead. You haven’t peaked yet!