Tutoring With Questions

The Case of Tutoring With Questions

The following shares a live example of tutoring with questions:

Dick is a capable supervisor who reports to you. He manages a group of five that includes Jane, his top technical performer and his biggest challenge. The two of them clash at times, especially when they have a difference of opinion on how something should be done.

Earlier today at Dick's staff meeting, the two of them knocked heads over a problem in their work process: Dick expressed much concern over what he viewed as a lack of progress by the team in resolving this issue and Jane reacted and commented how he is not seeing the steps she and the team have been taking to resolve the issue. Discussion at the meeting died after their clash with one another.

You learn of this conflict shortly after the meeting, when, on his way to a customer appointment, Dick tells you what happened. Not long after that, you pass Jane in the hallway, who expresses to you her growing frustration with Dick's "dictatorial and reactive management style."

Now, near the end of the day, Dick is back in your office still stewing over the latest incident of Jane's "obstinate ways." He tells you he wants to sit her down and set her straight. "She needs to know who is in charge of this group! Right?"

So how might you handle this challenging situation by tutoring with questions? Follow along:

You: "Let's explore this issue you have with Jane. Whatever we work out, I want it to ensure that you and Jane can work together effectively an that you get the best out of Jane, who is your most talented performer." (Statement of positive outcome.)

Dick: "Ultimately, I want the same thing."

You: "Right now, I'm hearing a lot of frustration form you about Jane. Is that right?" (Reflecting feelings.)

Dick: "Yes, you're right. She's the biggest frustration and challenge among my staff. Life is not easy with her, but she's a stellar worker".

You: "Keeping this in mind, what would happen if, in this frustrated manner, and even without it, you sat Jane down and let her know she needs to straighten up because you're the boss?" (Open-ended question for initial analysis of the situation.)

Dick: "I would instantly offend her. That would only make matters worse. But I still see the need to talk to her".

You: