Quick Question: Who has done this before?
Quick Question
Here is today's quick question for you...Who has done this before?
Ask it when you're...
Doing something for the first time - a new set of responsibilities can be daunting. I’ve watched many leaders head down a ‘research rabbit hole’ in an attempt to fill in their missing background. Don't forget that sometimes the quickest way is to talk to people who have done it many times before.
Reflecting on a project gone wrong - sometimes, when we reflect on an unexpected outcome, we simply don’t know what went wrong. Talking to others about their successes and failures can inform better reflection in our team.
Brainstorming new ideas - inviting an ‘experienced external’ to your brainstorming session can inject new enthusiasm and encourage new thought patterns to emerge.
Listen for...
As leaders, we often feel the pressure to have all the answers. Seeking the perspective of experienced others can help reduce this pressure and enable us to focus on the most important questions.
Try to listen for:
A framework or process - try to go beyond their specific advice and look for a repeatable framework that you can apply in future situations.
Humility and kindness - mistakes happen, especially when working on new things. Observe how others are kind to themselves when reflecting on their own history
Unexpected connections - look for the ideas or patterns that form when a new person enters the discussion
This question helps us remember to leverage our networks and seek thought partnerships wherever we can.
Follow up with...
Sometimes, the greatest value comes from the one extra question you take the time to ask.
In this situation, you could try…
What do you wish you knew when you started?
How would you recommend we approach this?
What other industries or companies would you recommend we look at for inspiration?
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