Asking questions is a fundamental part of every definition of coaching I’ve read. That’s why it is a skill that we coaches need to be continually developing.
It is a critical talent for you leaders too. Especially if you want to take a coach approach to leadership.
You know I love books! That’s why I just had to recommend my latest great read. I just finished it this morning and had to share. You’re welcome 😉
If you want to fast-track your ability to have conversations that make a difference, this book is for you.
The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More Questions and Change the Way You Lead Forever.
It’s by one of my favourite authors and gurus Michael Bungay Stanier. I’ve read all of his books. I love his quirky style and rock-solid content. I’ve been a big fan since he wrote Do More Great Work. Looks like I’m not the only one. The Coaching Habit has only been out since the end of February 2016, and it’s already climbing the charts.
To quote Bungay Stanier, The change of behaviour at the heart of what this book is about is this: a little more asking people questions and a little less telling people what to do.
So, stop offering advice with a question mark attached (you know you do that) and figure out how to ask more real questions! Michael’s book will show you how. Mine is already filled with highlights. Grab your copy and bust out the highlighters, this is a book you don’t want to miss. Really.
Oh, and before you go, have you got a coaching tip or resource you would like to recommend to other coaches? What about a great read for leaders? I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment in the box below.

Author: Cathy Shaughnessy
Cathy Shaughnessy is an ICF Assessor and PRISM award-winning ICF Master Certified Coach. Cathy mentors credentialed coaches and she creates tools and programs to assist coaches to successfully earn their ICF Credentials. Get more information on Cathy’s group mentor coaching programs here. Check out the latest resource for coaches, How to Learn the ICF Competencies – 32 Fun Activities to Get You Started.
Click the image below to download the Free Easy Tracking Form for Coaches and get tools and resources from Cathy!

Cathy Shaughnessy is an ICF Assessor and PRISM award-winning ICF Master Certified Coach. Cathy mentors credentialed coaches and she creates tools and programs to assist coaches to successfully earn their ICF Credentials. Get more information on Cathy’s group mentor coaching programs here. Check out the latest resource for coaches, How to Learn the ICF Competencies – 32 Fun Activities to Get You Started.
Click the image below to download the Free Easy Tracking Form for Coaches and get tools and resources from Cathy!