Questioning can be a very powerful feedback tool. Part of our learning this year is focused on giving and receiving impactful feedback that widens options and perspectives and encourages the participant to think broadly while growing his/her own capacity to problem solve. Using questioning as a feedback tool fosters critical thinking, growth, and empowerment, rather than simply solving problems for others.
As an experienced, time-stressed leader and mentor, it is often tempting to provide the answer to a dilemma and move on. However, one ECP, reflecting on her role as a mentor during a debrief with her coach, powerfully said: “I realized I didn’t ask questions. You’re making me think. I wouldn’t give students the answer; I would ask them questions. So why would I give an adult the answer?”
Questioning can also surface values, assumptions, conclusions, beliefs, and actions that individuals hold. This can be an especially useful tool when engaging in a conversation in which the other person may be stuck in a loop.
Below are resources that will support you in your efforts to grow your mentoring/feedback skills through questioning.
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