The Coach’s Greatest Tool: Asking Great Questions

If coaching feels magical at times, it’s often because of one simple yet powerful tool: asking great questions. As Steve Chandler wisely noted, "The coach's most useful tool is questioning." Questions have an extraordinary ability to unlock insights that might otherwise remain hidden. They invite people to explore their own wisdom, truth, and inspiration—and that’s where real transformation happens.

The Power of Questions  

What makes questions so powerful? Until a question is asked, an answer doesn’t exist. Questions create space for new thoughts to emerge—thoughts that can lead to clarity, conviction, or even life-changing realizations.

For instance, try this exercise: Close your eyes and take three deep breaths. Then ask yourself this question: If I had only three minutes to share with a young person what I’ve learned about the secrets of life, what would I share? Let the answer come naturally while your eyes are still closed.

What did you experience? Did you discover something new? Did you feel more certain about what matters most to you? This simple exercise demonstrates how questions can open us up to deeper truths we may not have consciously considered before.

Asking Better Questions  

Asking great questions isn’t about following a script or checklist—it’s about being present in the moment and feeling into what might be most helpful or insightful for the person you’re speaking with. Here are some examples of questions I often use in coaching conversations:  

• What’s on your mind?  

• What are you most excited about these days?  

• Where is your energy flowing right now?  

• What was most useful for you?

These questions are designed to redirect people back to their own insights and experiences rather than offering solutions or advice outright. They empower individuals to find their own answers—answers that resonate deeply because they come from within.

The Art of Crafting Questions  

Crafting great questions requires curiosity and intuition. Instead of defaulting to generic questions like “How are you?”, take a moment to consider what might spark meaningful reflection or conversation for the other person.

For example:

• If someone seems overwhelmed: What’s one thing you’d like clarity on right now?  

• If someone seems excited: What’s lighting you up these days?  

• If someone seems stuck: What would make this situation feel lighter or easier for you?  

By tailoring your questions to the moment and the individual’s energy or needs, you can create deeper connections and foster transformative insights.

Final Thoughts  

Questions are magical because they open doors that might otherwise remain closed. As coaches—or simply as humans seeking meaningful connections—our ability to ask thoughtful questions can profoundly impact those around us.

So here’s my challenge for you: Start asking elevated questions today. Pay attention to how people respond when you ask something unexpected or thought-provoking. Notice how their energy shifts when they tap into their own wisdom through your question.

When we ask great questions, we don’t just guide others—we empower them to discover their own truth and potential.