Question strategy development

Questions are essential tools in a facilitator's practice. Different types serve different purposes, helping guide conversations and uncover valuable insights.

Key questioning techniques include:

• Open questions: Guide deeper discussions with "what," "how," "when," or "why." For example: "What changes would make the biggest difference?" or "How did you handle similar challenges?"
• Fact-finding questions: Focus on specific information with clear, direct queries: "How many team members will join?" or "When do we need final approval?"
• Feeling-sensing questions: Explore thoughts and perspectives naturally: "How do you feel about the new process?" or "What do you think about this approach?"
• Indirect questions: Address sensitive topics thoughtfully: "Some people find this change challenging. How does it sound to you?"
• Solution-focused questions: Explore possibilities beyond current constraints: "If we could redesign this process from scratch, what would work better?"

The real skill comes from matching the right question type to the moment. When people seem hesitant, try indirect questions. When you need clarity, go for fact-finding. Good facilitators learn to read the room and choose their approach thoughtfully.^[1]