The Art & Attitude of Humble Inquiry / Episode 5

By embracing the power of inquiry, leaders can create an environment where individuals feel heard, respected, and valued. Through thoughtful questioning and active listening, leaders can uncover insights, perspectives, and diverse viewpoints within their teams. This fosters a culture of open dialogue, trust, and collaboration.

Inquiry allows leaders to better understand the needs, concerns, and aspirations of their team members. It encourages them to empathize, validate, and acknowledge the experiences and emotions of others. This, in turn, nurtures a sense of psychological safety, where individuals feel comfortable taking risks, sharing their ideas, and expressing their authentic selves without fear of judgment or reprisal.

Furthermore, the power of inquiry enables leaders to uncover hidden opportunities, identify potential challenges, and generate innovative solutions. By asking probing questions, leaders can stimulate critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills within their teams. This not only enhances productivity but also cultivates a culture of continuous learning and growth.

Overall, the transformative and essential nature of inquiry as a leadership tool lies in its ability to create a psychologically safe space where individuals can thrive, collaborate effectively, and contribute their best to organizational success.

Reference

SCHEIN, E. H. (2021). Humble inquiry: The gentle art of asking instead of telling. BERRETT-KOEHLER.

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