OD Book SIG
Event Title: Humble Inquiry: The Gentle Art of Asking Instead of Telling by Edgar Schein
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.
Facilitator:
Donna Christophersen, CALC, M.A. in Ed.
Founder and Managing Director, Clear Action LLC
Member WIAL-USA Board of Directors
As Founder of Clear Action, LLC, Donna Christophersen cultivates curiosity for leaders and teams to gain the clarity necessary for overcoming real-world challenges. Bringing 25 years leadership experience in engineering and K-12 education, Donna specializes in coaching Action Learning teams, subject matter experts transitioning into leadership roles, and high school students preparing to enter college or the workforce.
A World Institute of Action Learning (WIAL) Certified Action Learning Coach, Donna also holds a MA in Education and Human Development from The George Washington University and a BSE in Computer Engineering from The University of Michigan.
Satisfied coaching clients include those she has supported through education and career transitions in all walks of life including business, education, engineering/science, music and the arts. Donna has coached Action Learning Teams at the following organizations:
• U.S. Department of Education
• U.S. National Park Service
• U.S. Department of Commerce
• Assist Pregnancy Center
• American Red Cross
SIG Leaders:
Insperity Tysons Corner Office
1650 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 600
McLean, VA 22102
Cancellation policy: Event follows federal Office of Personnel Management policy and decisions. If federal government is closed, event will be canceled.
**Please register in advance to ensure sufficient seating.
