Make Your Team Work For It

When you’re a leader, it’s inevitable. At some point, some of your team members are going to come up to you and ask, “What should we do?”

It’s also inevitable that at some point they will ask you a question for which–gasp!–you have no good answer. 

But here’s the thing about the best leaders: they don’t pretend to have all the answers. They empower their team to think for themselves.

Even when you do know the answer, maybe you’ll be better off in the long run if you–gasp!–don’t give it to them.

When you withhold the solution, you’ll force your team to figure it out for themselves. They’ll gain confidence and experience, and may even come up with a solution better than the one you had in mind.

Now, don’t just stand there quietly staring at them. That could get awkward really fast. Ask them a question in return.

This can be a simple paraphrase and open-ended follow-up, like: 

• What important details are we missing?

• What do you think?

• What’s your recommendation?

• What are the options?

• Are we considering XYZ?

This way, whether you have a solution in mind or not, you’re helping your team members…

Figure. It. Out. 

All on their own.

About The Author

Emily Sander is an ICF-certified leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience in the business world and the author of Hacking Executive Leadership. She’s been featured in several print publications, online articles, and podcasts, including CEO Today Magazine, Leading to Fulfillment, and Leadership Powered by Common Sense. 

Emily has a passion for helping business leaders reach their full potential. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach. If you want to send Emily a quick message, then visit her contact page here.