Instead of simply telling or giving instructions, conversations that take a coaching approach ask open-ended questions. Of course, there are situations where direct guidance is needed, whether in a work or personal setting. However, understanding the significance and effectiveness of a coaching approach to conversations means mastering the art of knowing when and how to switch to using questions. This ability is incredibly valuable.
Asking open-ended questions causes the person to gain new perspectives and make confident decisions. When you use a coaching approach your questions:
Evoke discovery - What is true about this situation?
Promote learning - What is becoming more clear?
Call for action - What are you going to do today?
When asking questions, it's important to shift from closed to open-ended questions. Closed questions, such as "Did you finish the project?" only allow for a simple "yes" or "no" response. By asking an open-ended question like "How is your project progressing?" you encourage the person to provide a more detailed answer.
An open-ended question helps the person being coached to pause and reflect to make new discoveries. To shift from asking closed to open questions, consider starting your questions with Who, What, Where, When, and How.
Who are the key people in this?
What is another perspective?
Where can you get more information?
When will you know you have succeeded?
How can you best approach this?
Learn more: shape culture through impact coaching
Testimony - Harry from South Africa
“I found the coach training courses were profoundly meaningful and the interactions with the trainers and other class members was very helpful since there was space for relationships to develop.”