Ask the lazy question (“how can I help?”) to pinpoint what you need to focus on
from The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Forever by Michael Bungay Stanier
How to Apply This
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Be blunt.
For example, ask “what exactly do you want me to do for you?”. This type of question will lure others to make a direct and clear request. -
Be polite.
Use a soft and polite tone while asking the lazy question. -
Be courageous enough to give a genuine answer to the lazy question.
For example, say “yes”, “no” or “I will think about it” if someone asks you to help with a particular project or task. Don’t beat around the bush. -
Give only solicited advice.
For example, resist the urge to advise someone who asks you to help with data entry for a delayed project. In this case, you should either accept or refuse to help. However, you can advise him if he asked you the fastest way to enter a particular type of data.
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