You’ve made it through your 7th post in the Coaching Habit series. But before you go patting yourself on the back, we have one last question to work through.
Before we get to that last question, one important thing to remember, is to acknowledge the answers you get. As you are thinking of launching your next question, make sure you say something like, “Good Answers,” “Awesome,” “I like it,” you get the idea.
The Learning Question: What was most useful to you?
Whenever we go through a new learning situation or training, even when it completely resonates with us and we are completely on board in that moment, we tend to forget it in the days that pass, and it gets more distant with time.
The same is true when we meet with others from time to time. Use these ways to keep your knowledge workers from forgetting:
- At the end of the conversation, ask “What was most useful to you?” It interrupts the beginning stages of forgetfulness.
- You could always find a way to bring it up earlier in the conversation, “What have you learned since we last met?”
For those of you who thrive on productivity apps, use the iDoneThis app to write down what you learned and what you are most proud of.
Got it, right? Now I am sure you are wondering how this question works. I am so glad you asked! The Coaching Habit author, Michael Bungay Stainer, sums it up quite nicely for us:
- It assumes the conversation was useful
- It asks people to identify the thing that was most useful
- It makes it personal
- It gives you feedback
- It’s learning, not judgement
- It reminds people how useful you are to them
Ready to put this final question into play? Alright, one last thing…
When this happens…write out the moment, the person and perhaps the feelings that are your trigger.
- The end of the exchange, the conclusion of a conversation. If you’re giving yourself air fist pumps inside your head, and ready to pat yourself on the back, it’s time to ask.
Instead of…write out the old habit you want to stop doing.
- Wrapping up the convo, making a fast exit, etc.
I will…describe your new habit.
- Ask What was most useful here to you? Or What worked best here?
Okay, now it’s official. Feel free to pat yourselves on the back!
