The Power of "What?"

“What” is a very simple word, yet when used correctly can be a leader’s most effective and powerful tool. Why? Because it helps the leader get information they need to make the best decisions possible for their business, their team and their customers.

Effective leadership means knowing how to ask the right question at the right time in the right way to determine the status of your organization and to make sure your team is on the right track to accomplish its stated goals. Far too many “wanna be” leaders ask questions after the fact and generally – when things go wrong – in a confrontational way.

Here are some simple questions, using “what” that you can employ to help you effectively lead your team and help them grow and perform better.

What needs to be done?

What is the right action to take that would produce the best outcome for the company?

What is the best use of our time and resources?

What’s the current status?

What are the some of the challenges you are facing?

What is holding you back?

What can I do to help you?

There are plenty more ways for you to use the “what” question. What are they? Only you can answer that question. And you should, that is if you want to improve your performance and the performance of your team.

What are you going to do next?