Why are we afraid of asking questions? There is a perception that we may appear less competent, but recent research has proven this to not always be the case. In a recent article in INSEAD Knowledge (read it here), Natalia Karelaia reports on her research into this very issue.
In fact, the research indicates that leaders who routinely ask questions become more credible in their roles. They are rated as more trustworthy and were more likely to receive the assistance they need. When leaders can reframe their knowledge gaps into curiosity it develops a relational humility that translates into increased leader effectiveness.
Additionally, leaders who ask questions on a regular basis before they make a decision can “strengthen their interpersonal relationships while simultaneously improving problem-solving as well as leadership performance.”
There are some caveats identified in the article, including noting that not all questions are worth asking, especially self-serving types of questions. But overall, Karelaia advocates that leaders should consider question-asking as a solid interpersonal investment that also allows for better decision making.