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Humble Inquiry

The Gentle Art of Asking Instead of Telling

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Humble Inquiry

By: Edgar H. Schein
Narrated by: Sean Pratt
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About this listen

The key to effective communication. Communication is essential in a healthy organization. But all too often when we interact with people - especially those who report to us - we simply tell them what we think they need to know. This shuts them down. To generate bold new ideas, to avoid disastrous mistakes, to develop agility and flexibility, we need to practice Humble Inquiry. Ed Schein defines Humble Inquiry as "the fine art of drawing someone out, of asking questions to which you do not know the answer, of building a relationship based on curiosity and interest in the other person." In this seminal work, Schein contrasts Humble Inquiry with other kinds of inquiry, shows the benefits Humble Inquiry provides in many different settings, and offers advice on overcoming the cultural, organizational, and psychological barriers that keep us from practicing it.

©2013 Edgar H Schein (P)2014 Gildan Media LLC Business Communication Career Success Organisational Behaviour Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Relationships Workplace & Organisational Behaviour

Critic Reviews

“I have had the privilege of working with Ed Schein. Reading Humble Inquiry I could hear his voice asking me those humble questions that joined us in a mutual search for the answer. His book distills what he has learned and practiced in a lifetime of helping high-powered leaders be even more successful.”—Anthony F. Earley, Jr., Chairman, CEO and President, PG&E Corporation
All stars
Most relevant
Useful insights into how we communicate, offering suggestions on mindset and technique. A terrific listen.

Powerful way to stay meaningfully connected

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This book outlines the benefits of asking questions one genuinely wants to know the answer to. What a pity that we need such a book!

I liked the brevity of the book- it covers all the key points raised in the longer version for consultants. I found the links to areas like organisational culture useful.

I'd recommend this book to anyone interested in enhancing risk free communication patterns within their organisation.

Brief and insightful

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