Get beneath the surface to better support your team.

“It seems like things are going well on the surface, but I’m concerned about what’s going on underneath? How can I find out what’s going on below?”

I get this question a lot. Leaders are concerned that they might not know what their team is really feeling and thinking.

Here are some ideas for going deeper, with some fun footage from under the see in Bonaire on this special edition of Asking For a Friend, underwater edition.

1:00 Bring your team together in person if at all possible

Integrating some in-person opportunities (sharing a meal, talking casually) adds magic and depth to collaboration. It’s much easier to get beneath the surface when you’re more relaxed.

1:54 Ask courageous questions to get beneath the surface conversation

Examples:

• What’s one thing that’s sabotaging your productivity right now?
• What’s one area that you are really concerned about our team functioning?
• What is one idea that would help you feel more comfortable bringing us more ideas?

Here is a list of courageous questions that will help you get beneath the surface a bit faster.

2:27 Consider mixing up your one-on-ones

Have a deep connection at a human level, not just creating clarity and seeing what people need.

Additional Resources for Getting Beneath the Surface Conversation with Your Team

Team Conflict: How to Surface and Discuss Simmering Issues

Psychological Safety: Why People Don’t Speak Up at Work

Remote One-on-Ones: What Employees are Yearning For Most

Your turn:  What ideas do you have for going deeper?