For Leaders: Dare to Ask “Stupid” Questions

This is worth reading—a reference for leaders. Good leaders have their own views but remain open, adjust when appropriate, acknowledge shortcomings, dare to ask, keep improving, and communicate and connect with team members as much as possible. Dare to “ask stupidly.” Technical leads usually mentor their team members. They are often more experienced and technically capable in some areas, enabling them to guide colleagues. But mentors do not know everything. Facing an unfamiliar situation does not justify ignoring or withholding support from team members. Technical leaders can still provide direction and help people find solutions. They should always offer the best guidance they can. Sometimes team members are more skilled in particular areas. That is actually as it should be: their combined knowledge must exceed the technical leader’s individual knowledge. Good technical leaders are not embarrassed to acknowledge what they do not know, even asking apparently stupid questions. Better to look foolish now and learn well than remain ignorant through the rest of your career. Unresolved questions only worsen over time. “If you ask a stupid question, you may feel stupid; but if you do not ask it, you remain stupid.” —Tony Rothman