Curiosity in Action: A Manager's Secret to Great Leadership

In today’s fast-paced work environments, managers often feel the pressure to have all the answers. But what if the key to unlocking better performance, engagement, and collaboration lies in asking better questions instead? Michael Bungay Stanier, the author of The Coaching Habit, champions curiosity as a cornerstone of effective management.

The Case for Curiosity in Leadership

• Curiosity drives engagement: Bungay Stanier emphasizes that when managers show genuine curiosity, they empower their teams. This leads to a culture where employees feel heard and valued, enhancing their commitment.
• Avoiding the 'advice trap': Managers often default to solving problems, offering advice, or directing their teams. Bungay Stanier argues this creates dependency and stifles critical thinking. Curiosity helps shift the dynamic, encouraging employees to own their challenges.

Key Insights from The Coaching Habit

1. Ask More, Tell Less
   Bungay Stanier introduces seven essential questions that help managers focus on listening instead of leading with solutions. For instance:

   • “What’s the real challenge here for you?”
     This question helps identify the core issue without jumping to conclusions.

2. Embrace the Pause
   Managers often rush to fill silences, but pausing allows employees to reflect and generate their own insights. Curiosity isn't just about asking—it’s about giving space for answers to emerge.

3. It’s About Them, Not You
   Shifting from directive leadership to a coaching mindset means prioritizing the employee's perspective. This transition fosters trust and builds confidence within the team.

Practical Applications for Managers

• Start Small: Try asking one coaching question in your next team meeting or one-on-one session. For example, “And what else?”—a favorite of Bungay Stanier—can uncover hidden layers of thought.
• Resist the Urge to Solve: Practice withholding advice for a moment longer than feels comfortable, and see what solutions your team generates on their own.
• Cultivate Curiosity as a Habit: Regularly reflect on how often you ask versus tell. Can you flip the ratio?

The Benefits of Curiosity in Leadership

By adopting a more curious approach, managers can transform their teams and organizations. The benefits include:

• Improved problem-solving, as employees feel safe to share ideas.
• Greater autonomy, leading to a more empowered workforce.
• A collaborative environment where creativity thrives.

Michael Bungay Stanier’s call for managers to be more curious isn’t just a strategy; it’s a mindset. By embracing curiosity, managers can unlock the potential of their teams, fostering growth, innovation, and resilience. The next time you’re tempted to provide a solution, pause—and ask a question instead.

Call to Action

Curiosity is contagious. How can you incorporate Bungay Stanier’s principles into your leadership style? Start today by asking one of his powerful questions and observe the difference it makes.