No matter your generation, you’ve likely heard the saying, “Curiosity killed the cat.” However, when it comes to leadership, curiosity is not a liability, it’s a strength. As leaders, staying curious and consistently asking thoughtful questions is essential to becoming more effective.

We don’t have to wait for performance reviews, quarterly meetings, or annual retreats to find out what’s going on. Those who read my blogs know I’m a strong advocate for regular one-on-one meetings. These sessions offer valuable opportunities to gain insights simply by asking the right questions.

For example, asking, “What is your biggest challenge right now?” opens the door for coaching and problem-solving. When you ask, “What could get in the way?” potential obstacles—barriers that often go unspoken—are brought into the conversation. This creates another chance to coach and help your team members find solutions.

Some of my favorite questions include, “What would it take to…?” or “What would it look like if…?” These questions encourage creative thinking and help uncover new possibilities.

Another powerful benefit to asking rather than telling is that your team feels heard, valued, and understood. There is no more effective tool in your leadership toolkit than asking power questions. When we show genuine interest in someone’s world, we lay the foundation for trust—and that trust is key to helping people grow and reach the next level.