The Power of Asking Better Questions

Ask Better Questions, Get Better Results

By: Paul K. Mengert, CEO

Association Management Group, Inc.

At AMG, we often deal with complex issues—from board governance and budgeting to resolving resident concerns and coordinating with vendors. In these moments, it’s easy to fall into the habit of trying to provide quick answers or make fast decisions. But over time, I’ve learned that the most effective leaders aren’t always the ones with the best answers—they’re the ones asking the best questions.

Whether you’re leading a meeting, coaching a team member, or speaking with a homeowner, a well-placed question can shift the entire dynamic. It invites people to think more deeply, to contribute more meaningfully, and to collaborate with greater trust. And it doesn’t have to be complicated.

Instead of asking, “Is that clear?”, try:

“What part of this might be unclear or need clarification?”

Instead of asking, “Can you handle this?”, try:

“What support would make this easier to manage?”

These small shifts create space for others to engage, share concerns, and build better solutions with you.

In our line of work, relationships are everything—and relationships are built on communication. When we ask thoughtful questions, we show people that we value their perspective. That’s true whether we’re talking with a colleague, a board president, or a vendor partner.

So as you go about your work this week, I encourage you to pause and ask:

“Is there a better question I could be asking right now?”

It might be the simplest way to make your next conversation your most productive one yet.